A popular actress once associated with the controversial NXIVM (pronounced “nexium”) group—whose leader was charged with sex trafficking and forced labor earlier this week—denies allegations that she knew about the company’s abusive practices.
Kristin Kreuk, 35, released a statement Thursday on her official Twitter account refuting rumors that she participated in wrongdoing while a member of the upstate New York-based self-help organization from 2005 until 2012. Her initial involvement with NXIVM stemmed from a “personal growth” course she took to overcome shyness.
— Kristin Kreuk (@MsKristinKreuk) March 29, 2018
“I left about five years ago and had minimal contact with those who were still involved,” Kreuk wrote. “The accusations that I was in the “inner circle” or recruited women as “sex slaves” are blatantly false. I am horrified and disgusted by what has come out about DOS.”
According to People, “DOS” refers to Dominus Obsequious Sororium, a faction within NXIVM made up of women who were brainwashed into sexual slavery by the group’s co-founder Keith Raniere.
Last fall, The New York Times reported that several DOS women accused Raniere of branding their flesh like cattle, and forcing them into sexual servitude.
As CrimeOnline previously reported, Raniere, called “Vanguard” by group members, was arrested on sex trafficking and forced labor charges in Mexico on Monday. He has been extradited to the US. Kreuk’s Smallville co-star Allison Mack, who joined Kreuk at NXIVM in early 2006, is still associated with the cult today. Raniere leveraged their combined starpower to entice new recruits.
“Thank you to all of the brave women who have come forward to share their stories and expose DOS; I can’t imagine how difficult this has been for you,” Keruk’s statement continued. “I am deeply disturbed and embarrassed to have been associated with NXIVM. I hope that the investigation leads to justice for all of those affected.”
A note on NXIVM’s website reads, “In response to the allegations against our founder, Keith Raniere, we are currently working with the authorities to demonstrate his innocence and true character. We strongly believe the justice system will prevail in bringing the truth to light.”
Raniere could face 15 years to life imprisonment if found guilty of the charges.
[Feature Photo: Kristin Kreuk via AP/Victoria Will]
