NEW YORK (AP) — Nicole Daedone, the leader of OneTaste Inc., a controversial women’s wellness company, has been sentenced to nine years in federal prison for charges related to forced labor, according to prosecutors.
Daedone, who co-founded the company that promoted orgasmic meditation, was also ordered to forfeit $12 million, the amount she received from selling the California-based firm. Prosecutors argued for a 20-year term, stating that Daedone’s actions had financially and emotionally devastated many victims.
In court filings, they described a scheme that exercised control through economic pressure and psychological manipulation, resulting in lasting trauma for its adherents. Scores of victims were left financially, emotionally, and psychologically scarred, said spokesperson John Marzulli from the Office of U.S. Attorney.
In contrast, Daedone's lawyers sought a two-year sentence, claiming that a lengthy imprisonment would be unreasonable, pointing out that she had no prior record and extensive positive character references from over 200 individuals.
Among her supporters was CNN correspondent Van Jones, who referred to Daedone as a woman of wisdom and moral courage, dedicated to helping others. Actor Richard Schiff echoed these sentiments, asserting that Daedone had devoted her life to reducing shame around human experiences often misunderstood.
During the trial, it was revealed that Daedone, along with her co-defendant Rachel Cherwitz, manipulated members of OneTaste into committing sexual acts under the guise of achieving freedom and adherence to company principles, exploiting many who had previously experienced sexual trauma.
OneTaste was founded in 2004 with a focus on women’s sexual empowerment and attracted attention for its unique practices. It gained rapid media coverage, expanding internationally. However, Daedone sold her stake in 2017 before the company’s practices faced heavy scrutiny.
The current owners have since rebranded the organization, claiming that the accusations against its former executives were unjust, and they assert that its mission has been misrepresented.
