Keith Raniere.Photo: Nxivm video/ YouTube
A federal judge has orderedNxivmfounderKeith Raniereto pay a total of $3.46 million in restitution to 21 victims due to his crimes involving sex trafficking and racketeering, according toCNN.
Investigators said that Raniere, who was known as “Vanguard” to his followers, occupied the top of the DOS pyramid, with tiers of female “slaves,” each of whom could become a “master” to slaves beneath them. Prosecutors said DOS members were held down and branded with Raniere’s initials just below their bikini lines.
At Tuesday’s hearing, Garaufis ordered Raniere to pay $2,500 to victims who were branded in order to cover the costs of having them removed and additional restitution payments to victims for mental health services due to his “psychological torture,“CNNreports.
Albany, NY headquarters of NXIVM.Amy Luke/Getty
According to the outlet, prosecutors said the victim who was ordered to receive the highest amount ($500,000) was 15 years old when she was branded, forced to have sex with Raniere, and coerced to take pornographic photos as a minor.
Raniere is currently serving his120-year prison sentenceat a federal facility in Arizona.
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RELATED VIDEO: Actress Allison Mack Sentenced to 3 Years in Prison for Role in Nxivm Sex Cult
The restitution decision comes just weeks after disgracedSmallvilleactressAllison Mackwassentenced to three yearsin federal prison for her involvement as a prominent leader within Nxivm. The U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Eastern District of New Yorkannounced the sentenceon June 30, which also includes a $20,000 fine.
NXIVM and the criminal cases of Raniere and Mack have since served as the focus of two documentary series: HBO’sThe Vow(already renewed for a second season) and the Starz seriesSeduced: Inside the NXIVM Cult.
If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual abuse, text “STRENGTH” to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741 to be connected to a certified crisis counselor.
source: people.com
