The Hidden Connection Between NXIVM And Scientology
We recently wrote about how the NXIVM sex trafficking cult was using a precedent set by Scientology to protect themselves from charges of forced labor, coercion and blackmail. There may be a missing link that accounts for these startling similar styles of operation.
As far back as 2003, Rick Ross of the Cult Education Institute (formerly the Cult Awareness Network, more on that in a moment) addressed a comment from a user at the forum from user Templar regarding "the beginning of the end for NXIVM."
NXIVM Sex Cult Uses Scientology Precedent As Protection In Forced Labor Case
The comment regarded Keith Raniere, head of NXIVM, working to legally suppress detractors by claiming copyright and trade secret violations. This form of "lawfare" had been similarly unsuccessful when Scientology recently attempted to use the same argument to keep OT materials from being released on the internet.
A real connection between the two is Nancy O'Meara, a high ranking Scientologist who, get this, also happens to be involved in the Cult Awareness Network (CAN).
How can that be, you may ask? In 1995, Rick Ross and two other members of CAN were found guilty of violating the right to freedom of religion in relation to the Life Tabernacle Church. Ross was made to pay over $3 million in damages, CAN was also liable for over $1 million. When their assets (including records, name, and phone number) were sold at auction for $20,000 they were purchased by a Scientologist.
https://thegoldwater.com/news/43936-The-Hidden-Connection-Between-NXIVM-And-Scientology