Smallville star released from jail in 'sex cult' case
The following article contains allegations of sexual misconduct that some readers may find distressing.
Smallville's Allison Mack will be freed from federal custody in the US for a very hefty price, as an investigation into her involvement with the alleged sex cult NXIVM continues.
Mack was arrested in New York last week and charged with sex trafficking, conspiracy and forced labor conspiracy over accusations that she recruited unsuspecting women into what was billed as a self-help group.
There have been rampant accusations that a secretive subgroup within NXIVM, called Dominus Obsequious Sororium or DOS, branded female members with the initials of its founder Keith Raniere and forced them to perform sex acts on Raniere and other male 'masters'.
Mack is accused to have been involved as well with a separate women's group within NXIVM that pitched itself as helping its members "eradicate purported weaknesses" - some members of this group were allegedly then recruited into DOS.
The 35-year-old actress was in court on Tuesday (April 24) where the presiding judge approved her release from custody on $5 million (£3.6 million) bond while the case proceeds (via The Hollywood Reporter).
As part of the terms of her release, Mack will be required to live under house arrest at her California residence and will submit to electronic monitoring. Mack has pled not guilty in the case.
Prior to Mack being apprehended, NXIVM leader Keith Raniere was picked up by police in Mexico and extradited to the US, to face federal sex trafficking charges.
Earlier this month, Mack's former Smallville co-star Kristin Kreuk downplayed her own past affiliation with NXIVM and denied ever recruiting sex slaves for the group.
(Kristin Kreuk and Allison Mack)
"The accusations that I was in the 'inner circle' or recruited women as 'sex slaves' are blatantly false," she tweeted on March 30.
"During my time, I never experienced anything illegal or nefarious activity. I am horrified and disgusted about what has come out about DOS. 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.
"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 statement posted on the NXIVM website indicated that the group is working with federal officials to establish Raniere's "innocence and true character".
Rape Crisis England and Wales works towards the elimination of sexual violence. If you've been affected by the issues raised in this story, you can access more information on their website or by calling the National Rape Crisis Helpline on 0808 802 9999. Rape Crisis Scotland's helpline number is 08088 01 03 02.
Readers in the US are encouraged to contact RAINN, or the National Sexual Assault Hotline on 800-656-4673.
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