They are accused of branding women and forcing them to have sex — but at least they’re not the Mafia.
Leaders of the alleged sex cult Nxivm argue in Brooklyn court papers that the federal indictments against them should be tossed because they are a “wonderful humanitarian organization,” not a mob.
“If there was a polar-opposite of an organized-crime family, Nxivm would be it,” reads accused cult leader Keith Raniere’s motion asking Judge Nicholas Garaufis to dismiss the charges against him and his female lieutenants.
Raniere and his associates, including former “Smallville’’ TV actress Allison Mack, are accused of sex trafficking, forced labor, racketeering and other charges for running the Albany-area group, which prosecutors say masquerades as a self-help community while abusing and manipulating its members.
Nxivm includes a secret sorority of “masters” and “slaves” called DOS, or Dominant Over Submissive,’ membership in which Mack has insisted is consensual.
To join the inner group, Nxivm’s women had to turn over nude photos or share their dark secrets as “collateral” and were branded with Raniere’s initials.
But the new filings defend the group: “In 2015, Keith Raniere inspired the creation of DOS. Unlike Nxivm which seeks to reach the humanity in each person, DOS is not for everyone. The practices of DOS that have ignited the . . . ire of the Justice Department are manifestations of each member’s commitment to the group.”
Alleged “master” Lauren Salzman has also filed to dismiss her case, as have Mack and Seagrams heiress and accused Nxivm bankroller Clare Bronfman.
Garaufis has yet to rule on the motions.