NEW YORK (AP) — Nicole Daedone, leader of the controversial women’s wellness company OneTaste Inc., has been sentenced to nine years in federal prison due to charges related to forced labor. The sentencing took place in Brooklyn, where federal prosecutors noted the extensive harm caused to numerous victims owing to Daedone’s practices.
In addition to her prison term, Daedone was ordered to forfeit $12 million — the price she received when she sold the California-based company, as outlined by prosecutors from the Office of U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York.
Prosecutors had aimed for a 20-year sentence, asserting that her methods involved “economic pressure, psychological manipulation, physical exhaustion, and emotional degradation,” which left a trail of financial destruction and lasting trauma for victims.
In response, Daedone's defense team argued that a lengthy sentence would be excessive, suggesting a two-year term instead. They highlighted her lack of a previous criminal record and the overwhelming support she received from over 200 individuals who praised her character and the impactful work she has done throughout her life.
Among her supporters was CNN correspondent and criminal justice reform advocate Van Jones, who described Daedone as possessing “uncommon wisdom, grace, and moral courage.” Other supporters included actor Richard Schiff, who emphasized her commitment to compassion and understanding in sensitive areas of human experience.
The trial brought to light how Daedone and her co-conspirator, Rachel Cherwitz, exploited followers — many of whom had previously suffered from sexual trauma. Prosecutors argued that they coerced members into engaging in uncomfortable sexual acts under the guise of personal growth and enlightenment.
Initially founded in San Francisco in 2004, OneTaste aimed to promote sexual wellness among women through practices like “orgasmic meditation,” which was centered around group activities that involved physical stimulation by men. The company gained notable media attention in the 2010s, celebrated for its innovative approach to female sexuality and empowerment.
Daedone sold her stake in OneTaste in 2017, just a year before the company's practices came under heavy scrutiny. Following the scandal, the current management rebranded OneTaste as the Institute of OM Foundation, claiming that its past practices have been mischaracterized and that the legal challenges against former leaders were unfounded.
