Industry Therapist Dr. Amie Harwick Killed, Ex-Boyfriend Implicated

Industry Therapist Dr. Amie Harwick Killed, Ex-Boyfriend Implicated

LOS ANGELES — Dr. Amie Harwick, a noted sex therapist, was killed over the weekend after falling from the third story balcony of her Hollywood Hills residence. 

Her ex-boyfriend, Gareth Pursehouse, an industry photographer, was arrested Saturday afternoon on suspicion of murder in connection to her death. 

Harwick had previously obtained a restraining order against Pursehouse, which had since expired. Investigators later learned that she had recently expressed fear about Pursehouse, whom she had last been known to have been in contact with as recently as two weeks ago, KTLA reports. 

According to a written statement from the Los Angeles Police Department, officers first arrived on the scene after reports of a woman heard screaming prompted a police response. KTLA 5 reports that upon arrival, officers encountered a man in the street who said his roommate (Harwick) was being assaulted inside the residence. She was soon found after under the third story balcony with severe injuries that LAPD officials describe as being "consistent with a fall."

Harwick was taken to a hospital, where she later died at 1:15 a.m. (PST), hours after the attack. 

Further investigation reportedly revealed evidence of forced entry and a struggle. 

Pursehouse is currently being held on $2 million bail. Detectives plan to present their case to the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office for filing on Wednesday.

Harwick first entered the adult industry as a Playboy model before becoming a licensed therapist, specializing in relationships and sex therapy. An accomplished author, her 2014 book, "The New Sex Bible for Women," garnered widespread acclaim and solidified her as a go-to media source for sexual health and wellness advice and information. 

She was an advocate for sex workers and collaborated with Pineapple Support to offer free and low-cost therapy options to active adult performers. Most recently, she was scheduled to host an eight-week support group for performers focusing on examining triggers and trauma to gain insight on behaviors and facilitate better well-being. 

Pineapple Support founder Leya Tanit issued the following statement on behalf of the organization earlier today. "We are devastated to learn of the death of Amie Harwick, a longtime Pineapple Support therapist and a true force for good in this world," said Tanit.

"Amie was one of the first therapists to join our team and conducted regular in-person sessions for sex workers in her Los Angeles office. She contributed to our Pineapple Support Summit in October, worked with performers directly in a series of pioneering workshops, and was in talks with us about developing new projects that could help lessen the mental health burdens faced by performers. She was a friend and ally — funny, kind, intelligent and dedicated. Our hearts are broken."

As clients and friends learned of the news of Harwick's death, some took to Twitter to share their grief. 

"I want everyone to know how badass this woman is," wrote E!'s Kelsey Darragh. "She wore vintage Chanel suits with bright red pumps... she made her space feel warm and feminine... she was the definition of boss bitch. And while she had a 'take no shit' attitude, she was an incredibly empathic and thoughtful therapist."

Performers who worked with Harwick, or others struggling with her loss, are urged to contact Pineapple Support directly.

Related:  

Copyright © 2024 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More News

Agatha Vega: From Venezuela to Venerated Vixen

Agatha Vega was brought up in a small neighborhood in Caracas, Venezuela, a city known for its urban dangers. Yet despite her surroundings, she says, she had very positive experiences growing up. With various relatives living in close proximity, she was always able to enjoy the company of her family.

Kylie LeBeau Makes Her Hookup Hotshot Debut

Kylie LeBeau has made her Hookup Hotshot (HUHS) debut alongside studio honcho Bryan Gozzling.

Vixen Media Group Extends Exclusive Contract With Dan Damage

Vixen Media Group has renewed its exclusive contract with Dan Damage.

Evil Angel to Drop JD's 'Transgressive 24'

Evil Angel debuts the 24th volume of director JD’s “Transgressive.”

Connie Perignon Stars in Latest From Brazzers

Connie Perignon stars with Jordi El Nino Polla in the latest release from Brazzers, titled "The Sneaky Masseur."

Sinatra Monroe Has 'A Classy Affair' in Ricky's Room

Sinatra Monroe stars in the latest release from Ricky's Room, titled "A Classy Affair."

TeamSkeet Debuts New Series 'PervMassage'

Fanta Sie stars with Erick Everhard in the first episode of the new TeamSkeet series, “PervMassage."

Adult Industry Reacts to Trump Victory

On Tuesday, former President Donald Trump was reelected, defeating Vice President Kamala Harris to reclaim the office he lost four years ago.

Angel Windell, Katie Davis Headline Latest 'Lesbian Seductions'

Angel Windell and Katie Davis topline the 80th edition of “Lesbian Seductions,” from Girlfriends.

ERIKALUST Releases 'Texas Ride 'Em'

ERIKALUST has released its latest scene, “Texas Ride ‘Em.”

Show More