OneTaste leaders found guilty in forced labor case related to sexual wellness business practices.

Two former executives of OneTaste, a women-focused sexual wellness company known for its controversial “orgasmic meditation” classes, have been found guilty of forced labor conspiracy, according to federal prosecutors. Nicole Daedone, 57, co-founder and former CEO, alongside Rachel Cherwitz, 44, the former sales director, were implicated in a persistent coercive scheme that exploited employees through various forms of abuse.

Federal investigators detailed a pattern of manipulation and intimidation that allegedly affected numerous young women between 2006 and 2018. The women were subjected to economic, sexual, emotional, financial, and psychological abuse, including intrusive surveillance and indoctrination techniques designed to foster dependency on the company.

Founded in San Francisco in 2004, OneTaste expanded its operations to multiple major cities, including New York and Los Angeles, as well as international locations such as London. The company generated revenue through various avenues, notably offering coaching, workshops, and classes centered on sexual wellness, with the unique premise of “orgasmic meditation,” which involved personal interactions lasting approximately 15 minutes.

However, in stark contrast to its advertised aims of healing and empowerment, many women who sought assistance from OneTaste reported being coerced into working extensive hours for little to no compensation. Prosecutors have indicated that these individuals ended up performing manual labor and engaging in sexual services instead of achieving the promised personal growth.

These allegations were further brought to public attention through the 2022 Netflix documentary “Orgasm Inc: The Story of OneTaste,” which examined the organization’s practices and the experiences of former participants.

The legal troubles for Daedone and Cherwitz escalated in June 2023 when they were charged with forced labor conspiracy. According to prosecution arguments, they cultivated a culture of dependency among victims meant to execute sexual acts with investors and clients. Following a five-week trial in Brooklyn, a federal jury found both women guilty. Testimonies revealed that victims were required to perform demeaning tasks for Daedone’s initial investor, who was also her boyfriend.

U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, Joseph Nocella Jr., praised the courage of the witnesses who shared their trauma, emphasizing that the jury’s verdict exposed the defendants as exploiters who misused individuals’ search for empowerment for personal gain.

In the wake of the verdict, the attorneys representing Daedone and Cherwitz expressed disappointment, affirming their clients’ innocence and intentions to appeal. They highlighted the case’s complexity and expected it to raise significant legal questions for review by the Second Circuit.

The outcome of this high-profile case underscores the critical importance of safeguarding individuals in vulnerable positions, as well as ensuring accountability for those who exploit them under the guise of wellness and empowerment.

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