NXIVM cult leader Keith Raniere was sentenced to 120 years in prison on Tuesday after being found guilty on various charges, including racketeering, racketeering conspiracy, wire fraud conspiracy, forced labor conspiracy, sex trafficking, sex trafficking conspiracy, and attempted sex trafficking.

The 60-year-old received his sentence after 15 of the cult's former members read statements in front of Raniere, family members of the victims, and members of NXIVM who still support Raniere. Prosecutors sought a life sentence, while Raniere's lawyers argued for a 15-year sentence.

"The 120-year sentence imposed on Keith Raniere today is a measure of his appalling crimes committed over a decade," said Seth DuCharme, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York. "Raniere exploited and abused his victims emotionally, physically, and sexually for his personal gratification. It is my hope that today's sentence brings closure to the victims and their families."

NXIVM was founded by Raniere in 1998 and was built around self-help products. However, this was just a cover for a secret society within NXIVM called DOS, which was made up of women controlled by Raniere. In addition to being trafficked, the women were branded with Raniere's initials and forced to adhere to strict diets. 

Raniere previously maintained his innocence during an interview with Dateline.

"You know, one of the things that's most important in our country is the justice system," Raniere said. "I am innocent. And although it is, this is a horrible tragedy with many, many people being hurt, I think the main thrust of this has been the oppression but really a different issue, which is hard for me to express. There is a horrible injustice here. And whether you think I'm the devil or not, the justice process has to be examined."

Raniere’s co-defendants have pleaded guilty to their charges and most are waiting to be sentenced. Raniere will also have to pay a fine of $1,750,000.

Source: The Hollywood Reporter