How a company likened to a sex cult is lobbying Trump for pardons
OneTaste, a San Francisco-based company described by prosecutors as akin to a sex cult, is seeking presidential pardons for its two convicted leaders, Nicole Daedone and Rachel Cherwitz, who were sentenced to prison for forced labor conspiracy. The company is pursuing both formal pardon applications and informal lobbying efforts targeting allies of President Trump, including high-profile political figures and media personalities. Legal experts have raised concerns about the growing reliance on back-channel influence in the clemency process during Trump's second term.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Investigation Politics How a company likened to a sex cult is lobbying Trump for pardons By Gabe Kaminsky Gabe Kaminsky Investigative Reporter Gabe Kaminsky is an investigative reporter for CBS News based in Washington, D.C., covering money and influence in politics. Read Full Bio Gabe Kaminsky Updated on: April 29, 2026 / 6:19 PM EDT / CBS News Add CBS News on Google A company in San Francisco that prosecutors likened to a sex cult has embarked on a campaign to court allies of President Trump as it seeks pardons for its two convicted leaders, CBS News has learned through interviews and records.OneTaste, a self-described "orgasmic meditation" company, is on the hunt for clemency for its former CEO and founder Nicole Daedone and former head of sales Rachel Cherwitz.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at CBS News — Top.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from CBS News — Top
