NEW YORK, KOMPAS.com – A self-help teacher, who runs a sex sect in the United States (US) is reportedly sentenced to 120 years in prison.
Keith Raniere founded a “professional personal development” organization called NXIVM (pronounced nex-ee-um) in Albany, New York, in 1998.
But during the trial, prosecutors said NXIVM turned out to be a sex sect that deceived dozens of its victims and forced them to follow strict diets.
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The victims revealed how they were asked to provide the most embarrassing photos to silence them about what happened.
Raniere’s control was reported to be absolute, so one woman testified how she was locked up for two years while claiming to be attracted to someone.
The organization is said to have set thousands of dollars in tariffs only for invitations to self-development in New York, as well as in Mexico and Canada.
Its members, it is believed that there are Hollywood actresses on board, must obey Keith Raniere and be prepared to endure humiliation as part of his teachings.
Raniere was reportedly convicted last year on charges of extortion, smuggling, sex trafficking and attempts to block investigations.
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Reported Sky News Selsa (27/10/2020), the 60-year-old teacher emphasized that he did not feel guilty for his actions.
“It is true that I do not regret the crime accused at all. Because I did not commit it at all,” he said.
US District Judge Nicholas Garaufis said Raniere’s actions were “cruel and persistent”, with his offense “gruesome” for targeting young girls.
He later sentenced Raniere to 120 years in prison in Brooklyn federal court, after a lengthy hearing that included the victim’s testimony.
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Prosecutors said Keith Raniere ran a criminal organization, where he insulted and harassed victims to get him under control.
The “teacher” is also accused of controlling one of the conspirators who have recruited and prepared a “sexual partner” for him.
During the trial of the verdict, Raniere was criticized by his former followers. Including India Oxenberg, son of Dynasty actress Catherine Oxenberg.
Prosecutors are said to be demanding life imprisonment. Meanwhile, Raniere’s lawyer said that his client was jailed for 15 years.
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