Former Smallville actress Allison Mack has pleaded guilty to racketeering charges in the case of the “self-help” group NXIVM.
NXIVM (neck-see-uhm) is a cult-like group based in New York that has recruited “sex slaves” for years for its spiritual leader, Keith Rainere.
The trial is expected to detail many allegations that have been made against Rainere, Mack, and the group.
Mack is accused of recruiting women into a secret sub-society within the NXIVM. These women were branded by a surgical tool with a symbol that resembled Raniere’s initials.
Mack has said in an interview that the group emphasized“self-discipline and self-empowerment”, and she compared the branding to getting a tattoo.
The defense says the women were never abused.
Raniere and three co-defendants including heiress Clare Bronfman and Allison Mack have pleaded not guilty to conspiracy and other charges in the sex-trafficking case.
A judge hasn’t ruled yet on requests by the co-defendants to get trials separate from Raniere.
Opening statements for the trial are scheduled for April 29.