Founder of Sexual Wellness Company Sentenced for Forced Labor
Nicole Daedone, co-founder of the sexual wellness company OneTaste, was found guilty by a Brooklyn federal jury on Monday of conspiring to commit forced labor. This conviction marks the conclusion of a high-profile trial that exposed years of exploitation within the organization.
Details of the Forced Labor Allegations
Daedone, who launched OneTaste in 2004, and Rachel Cherwitz, the former head of sales and close associate of Daedone, stood accused of coercing employees and participants of the firm's workshops into unpaid labor and sexual activities with company investors. These wellness courses were marketed as transformative experiences aimed at healing trauma, often involving pricey retreats spanning several weeks.
Trial and Sentencing Schedule
Following a five-week trial, the jury deliberated for approximately two days before delivering the guilty verdict on a count of conspiracy to commit forced labor. Both Daedone and Cherwitz now face up to 20 years in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for late September, with Cherwitz’s hearing on September 25 and Daedone’s on September 26. Despite the conviction, both women remain out on bail and have expressed intentions to appeal.
Exploitation Uncovered Through Testimonies
Prosecutors painted a disturbing picture of OneTaste’s inner workings, revealing that some employees and course participants were trapped in a coercive environment. Several witnesses described feeling "brainwashed" and fearful of leaving a group that had become central to their lives. Testimonies detailed instructions given to women to engage in sexual acts for investors, as well as reports of assigned "handlers" tasked with servicing the company's main financial backer over years.
Many of those who testified likened OneTaste to a cult, highlighting the profound psychological and financial manipulation that took place under the guise of sexual empowerment.
Defense’s Position and Contested Claims
During the trial, defense attorneys argued that employees retained full autonomy over their actions and voluntarily participated in the company’s activities. Some witnesses acknowledged never refusing such assignments nor physically being forced to stay within the company, with all eventually leaving.
Daedone’s lawyer supported the stance that participants initially enjoyed the experience but later regretted their involvement. Notably, Daedone herself did not take the witness stand, despite previously indicating a willingness to testify.
OneTaste’s Rise and Fallout
Founded in San Francisco, OneTaste expanded to major cities, including Los Angeles, New York, and London. However, the company came under scrutiny after former employees and clients accused it of emotional, financial, and sexual abuse. The allegations led to criminal charges being filed in 2023, culminating in the recent trial and verdict.
Looking Ahead
The conviction of Daedone and Cherwitz underscores the legal and ethical boundaries surrounding workplace conduct and sexual wellness enterprises. As sentencing approaches, many await to see how the court will weigh the gravity of these offenses and the broader implications for similar organizations within the industry.
