Nicole Daedone and Rachel Cherwitz, leaders of OneTaste Inc., a women’s wellness company known for promoting “orgasmic meditation,” have been convicted of federal forced labor charges by a Brooklyn jury. The jury deliberated for just under two days after a five-week trial, and both women face up to 20 years in prison during sentencing.
Prosecutors accused Daedone and Cherwitz of operating a scheme that groomed vulnerable individuals—many with histories of sexual trauma—into performing uncomfortable sexual acts for the company. The women allegedly used psychological, sexual, and economic manipulation to enforce compliance, claiming these acts were essential for achieving “freedom” and “enlightenment.” Additionally, they reportedly failed to compensate members appropriately and pressured some into accruing debt to continue participating in the company’s courses.
In her closing remarks, Assistant U.S. Attorney Nina Gupta emphasized that the defendants exploited their victims, who sacrificed their money, time, dignity, and mental health. U.S. Attorney Joseph Nocella stated that the jury’s decision revealed Daedone and Cherwitz as manipulators who misrepresented their operations under the guise of empowerment.
In contrast, the defense depicted Daedone as a pioneering feminist entrepreneur and argued that participants chose to engage with OneTaste and could leave if dissatisfied. Both Daedone and Cherwitz maintain their innocence and plan to appeal, stating they are disappointed in the verdict.
Founded in 2004 in San Francisco, OneTaste gained popularity for viewing female orgasms as central to wellness. It offered courses and events for a fee, although it faced scrutiny regarding its practices. After Daedone sold her stake in 2017, the organization was rebranded as the Institute of OM Foundation, with current owners defending its commitment to sexual consent.
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