NXIVM is a cult, similar to Scientology in many ways, based on "self help" and multilevel marketing. The founder of the group was sentenced to 120 years in prison. Probably in large part because of the testimony from former members that the group was psychologically abusive, women were coerced into sex and extorted for money. The group is based in Albany, New York. https://www.esquire.com/entertainme...ult-celebrities-stars-the-vow-hbo-true-story/ It's notable from a legal perspective that the founder, Keith Raniere, was sentenced so harshly, since it could be argued that real "rape" did not actually technically take place. However it could also be argued that the founder deserves harsh punishment, since there was a great deal of psychological manipulation and duress, and these members were almost "brainwashed", for lack of a better description. These women were certainly "taken advantage of", both financially and sexually. And it could definitely be said they were "abused" (although perhaps not necessarily according to the legal definition of the word).
The main reason why I posted this is to show that someone can be sentenced to life in prison when they did not actually clearly/obviously break any laws. This can happen when it is determined they "deserve" to be punished. (And I think the majority segment of society would agree or at least not object to this person being punished) The criminal offenses this cult leader was charged with would require a very stretched, warped, twisted, disingenuous interpretation to create a connection between the law and what specifically this cult leader was actually accused of doing. The justice system doesn't have to run strictly on "rule of law". Still, I do wonder if this type of thing sets a concerning precedent, even if we do not disagree with the decision in this specific case. I wish I could have also posted this in the Law & Justice section of this forum, though I decided to post it here, since there is also a cult component to this story. (Even though it wasn't actually a religion, what happened here is like a religion in many ways)
Was a ridiculous sentence. You can murder someone and get way less.. Commit multiple rapes and get way less. and this was not rape - as there was consent .. This is bad precedent .. I think he should have gotten a stiff sentence .. but 120 years violates the principles of justice in this case in many ways.
On the other hand, we should also not underestimate how much control a cult like this could have over these women. I know that can be very hard to understand for people not familiar with how cults like this operate. related thread: Exposé on Scientology
