OneTaste Founder Receives Nine-Year Prison Term in Forced Labor Conspiracy
Nicole Daedone, the co-founder of the controversial wellness company OneTaste Inc., has been sentenced to nine years in federal prison for her involvement in a forced labor conspiracy that exploited vulnerable women. The sentencing, delivered in Brooklyn federal court on June 13, 2023, also includes a $12 million forfeiture order and approximately $890,000 in restitution awarded to seven identified victims.
Judge Condemns Exploitation Disguised as Empowerment
US District Court Judge Diane Gujarati emphasized during the packed hearing that Daedone's actions were criminal rather than enlightening. "What she was doing wasn't about enlightenment or operating in a different dimension," Judge Gujarati stated, noting the defendant showed little remorse despite support from two dozen attendees. Prosecutors had originally sought a 20-year prison term, arguing the scheme left numerous victims with lasting financial, emotional, and psychological scars.
Victims Speak Out Against Psychological Manipulation
One victim addressed the court, describing how she initially believed in Daedone's "so-called feminist mission" only to become ensnared in what she called a trap. "I was the perfect target," the woman revealed, highlighting the significant financial damages and emotional harm she endured. Federal prosecutors detailed how Daedone and her co-conspirators used economic pressure, psychological manipulation, physical exhaustion, and emotional degradation to control followers, many of whom were survivors of sexual trauma.
Defense Arguments and Celebrity Support
Daedone's legal team argued for a reduced sentence of approximately two years, describing their client as a "ceiling-shattering feminist entrepreneur" with no prior criminal record. They submitted over 200 character letters, including endorsements from CNN correspondent Van Jones, who praised Daedone's "uncommon wisdom, grace and moral courage," and actor Richard Schiff from The West Wing, who highlighted her efforts to bring compassion to misunderstood aspects of human experience.
Co-Conspirator Sentencing and Appeal Plans
Rachel Cherwitz, OneTaste's former sales director, received a six-and-a-half-year prison sentence for her role in the conspiracy. Daedone's lawyers have announced plans to appeal the conviction, noting she has been teaching meditation to fellow inmates at the Brooklyn federal detention center since her June 2022 conviction. Prominent attorney Alan Dershowitz has indicated he will seek a presidential pardon from Donald Trump for both women.
OneTaste's Controversial History and Practices
Founded in San Francisco in 2004, OneTaste gained media attention in the 2010s for its unique approach to women's sexual wellness, particularly through "orgasmic meditation" (OM) sessions involving manual stimulation in group settings. The company expanded internationally before Daedone sold her stake for $12 million in 2017. Prosecutors revealed during the trial that followers were coerced into performing sexual acts with investors and clients under the guise of achieving "freedom" and "enlightenment." Current company owners maintain the charges against former executives are unjustified.
US Attorney Joseph Nocella summarized the case's significance, stating, "Coercion disguised as wellness or empowerment is still exploitation and it is a crime that causes harm to vulnerable victims." The sentencing marks a dramatic conclusion to years of legal scrutiny surrounding OneTaste's controversial practices.
