Nicole Daedone, founder of OneTaste Inc., and Rachel Cherwitz, the former sales director, were convicted of federal forced labor charges by a Brooklyn jury after a five-week trial. Each faces up to 20 years in prison. Prosecutors alleged that the women operated a scheme exploiting vulnerable individuals, particularly those with sexual trauma, to perform uncomfortable sexual acts, like engaging with potential investors. They claimed these acts were framed as essential for achieving “freedom” and “enlightenment.” Additionally, Daedone and Cherwitz were accused of failing to provide promised earnings, coercing workers to obtain credit cards to afford company courses.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Nina Gupta stated that the defendants built their business at the expense of victims who lost their dignity and sanity. The evidence pointed to a manipulation of members under the guise of sexual empowerment. In contrast, Daedone’s defense characterized her as a feminist entrepreneur dedicated to women’s wellness and claimed that participants had voluntarily chosen to leave the organization when discontent arose. Cherwitz’s attorney echoed that sentiment, arguing that regrets from former participants did not constitute evidence of coercion.
Despite the convictions, the lawyers for Daedone and Cherwitz expressed their intention to appeal, claiming disappointment in the verdict and highlighting complex legal issues. OneTaste, co-founded in 2004, initially promoted “orgasmic meditation” as a path to psychological wellness and sexual freedom, but has since faced scrutiny over its practices. The current owners of OneTaste, now rebranded as the Institute of OM Foundation, have defended the organization’s principles, asserting that consent was always central to its operations.
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