NXIVM was formed by Keith Raniere and Nancy Salzman in the 1990s and billed itself as a self-help multi-level marketing company.

The company ceased operations last year after a New York Times exposé alleged that female members were used as sex slaves within the group.

The exposé prompted a federal investigation, and several members, including Raniere and "Smallville" actress Allison Mack, were charged with federal crimes.

Raniere was found guilty on Wednesday of sex trafficking and other charges, which accused him of coercing women into unwanted sex.

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When NXIVM first formed in the 1990s, it was billed as a self-help multi-level marketing company that offered professional development seminars.

But over the last year and half, the organization has fallen apart after a New York Times exposé alleged that female members were branded and used as sex slaves by the group's founder, Keith Raniere.

The exposé prompted a federal investigation and the arrests of several members, including Raniere and "Smallville" actress Allison Mack.

In recent months four defendants have pleaded guilty and admitted to allegations made in The Times' piece, including blackmail and enslaving members.

NXIVM has since shut down, and on Wednesday, Raniere was found guilty of sex trafficking and related charges.

Here's everything you need to know about NXIVM and the criminal case against the organization.