Tony Ortega's Blog, page 14
September 7, 2025
Presley family turmoil revealed in more lawsuit bombshells
TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: [What is this Substack thing, anyway?]
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Technology Cocktail
“The Dianetic Clear, on achieving this state, can be audited on Scientology Grades 0-IV. He would not be run on the R3RA section of service facs, however. On completing Grades 0-IV, he is not run on Power, R6EW or the Clearing Course but goes onto OT I, after doing the Solo Auditor Course. Should a pc being audited on Dianetics originate that he has achieved Dianetic Clear, or if a Dianetic auditor thinks this has occurred with his pc, the folders must be routed to an org C/S who is Clear or above and who can adjudicate.” — L. Ron Hubbard, 1979
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THE PROSECUTION OF DANNY MASTERSON
We first broke the news of the LAPD’s investigation of Scientology celebrity Danny Masterson on rape allegations in 2017, and we’ve been covering the story every step of the way since then. At this page we’ve collected our most important links as Danny faces a potential sentence of 45 years to life in prison. NOW WITH TRIAL INDEX.
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THE PODCAST: How many have you heard?
[1] Marc Headley [2] Claire Headley [3] Jeffrey Augustine [4] Bruce Hines [5] Sunny Pereira [6] Pete Griffiths [7] Geoff Levin [8] Patty Moher [9] Marc Headley [10] Jefferson Hawkins [11] Michelle ‘Emma’ Ryan [12] Paulette Cooper [13] Jesse Prince [14] Mark Bunker [15] Jon Atack [16] Mirriam Francis [17] Bruce Hines on MSH
— SPECIAL: The best TV show on Scientology you never got to see
[1] Phil Jones [2] Derek Bloch [3] Carol Nyburg [4] Katrina Reyes [5] Jamie DeWolf
— The first Danny Masterson trial and beyond
Advertisement(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});[18] Trial special with Chris Shelton [19] Trial week one [20] Marc Headley on the spy in the hallway [21] Trial week two [22] Trial week three [23] Trial week four [24] Leah Remini on LAPD Corruption [25] Mike Rinder 2022 Thanksgiving Special [26] Jane Doe 4 (Tricia Vessey), Part One [27] Jane Doe 4 (Tricia Vessey), Part Two [28] Claire Headley on the trial [29] Tory Christman [30] Bruce Hines on spying [31] Karen de la Carriere [32] Ron Miscavige on Shelly Miscavige [33] Karen de la Carriere on the L’s [34] Mark Bunker on Miscavige hiding [35] Mark Plummer [36] Mark Ebner [37] Karen Pressley [38] Steve Cannane [39] Fredrick Brennan [40] Clarissa Adams [41] Louise Shekter [42] John Sweeney [43] Tory Christman [44] Kate Bornstein [45] Christian Stolte [46] Mark Bunker [47] Jon Atack [48] Luke Y. Thompson [49] Mark Ebner [50] Bruce Hines [51] Spanky Taylor and Karen Pressley [51] Geoff and Robbie Levin [52] Sands Hall [53] Jonny Jacobsen [54] Sandy Holeman [55] Mark Bunker [56] Trish and Liz Conley [57] Trish Conley [58] Alex Barnes-Ross [59] Alex Barnes-Ross [60] Alex Barnes-Ross [61] Alex Barnes-Ross [62] Alex Barnes-Ross [63] Alex Barnes-Ross [64] Tory Christman [65] Tammy Synovec [66] Dennis Erlich [67] Alex Barnes-Ross [68] Valerie Ross [69] Kat in Austin [70] Mark Bunker [71] Phil Jones
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“The most sorrowful engram I ever ran into was an AA [attempted abortion] on Christmas Eve. This was a brutal one. This person couldn’t even start to come near a Christmas tree without going to pieces. He didn’t want anything to do with Christmas or any part of it. He was very peculiar about presents. If anybody tried to give him a present, he would say the social amenities of ‘Thank you very much. Oh, yes, I enjoy it a great deal,’ and then hastily throw it into a trunk to get it out of sight so that he wouldn’t run into it again. This peculiar behavior was occasioned by the very sad engram of a mutual AA where Papa was being very brutal. He got drunk and decided that he didn’t want any children around. He did this AA against protest, at the same time talking about Christmas. And then he said, ‘I’ve got a present for him,’ and thrust a needle right straight through the embryo. One thrust, one phrase. It really messed up that person’s life. Mama went to the doctor shortly afterwards and got herself patched up and the baby came through.” — L. Ron Hubbard, September 7, 1950
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“To relieve the feeling it’s a totally nutty planet, there are several PLUS-POINTS. 1. Orgs are there. Last Oct. they would have gone bankrupt but hard work by MSH and Gdn Office using FP No. 1 and CS-3 and FBOs got their cash-bills graphs into a solvent situation. 2. We have a strong SO unit at UK and a competent SO C/O at WW who is getting in a CIC at WW. We have the UK SO member aboard in training to put the Liaison Bureaux into UK. 3. We have trained a new C/O for AOSHDK and he is reported by one of our officers just there to be making the fur fly.” — The Commodore, September 7, 1970
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“Levitation is possible. Like making the body float. I imagine with lots of spiritual practice you can do it. I remember some Scientologists could do it back in the 50s. Apparently when someone is possessed by a demon they can start speaking a foreign language they never learnt and suddenly can levitate. The Exorcist movie is literally based on true stories. Preists who do exorcisms know about this. This is all true, people really don’t know what’s actually possible”
2001: A Fox News column by Roger Friedman noted the trend for the show Dharma and Greg to feature Scientology celebrities. “Has ABC’s Dharma and Greg become Scientology central for sitcoms? The group already has a vocal member in star Jenna Elfman, who plays Dharma. Elfman is the protege of acting teacher Milton Katselas, also a devotee of the pay-as-you-go cult favored by Tom Cruise, John Travolta and others. Last spring, avowed and outspoken cult member Kirstie Alley appeared in Dharma and Greg’s season cliffhanger as, of all things, a marriage counselor. Now the show has announced a full-time cast addition: Juliette Lewis, former drug addict and star of awful movies like Kalifornia and Natural Born Killers. Lewis is one of Scientology’s foremost celebrity zombies. Last summer at a Creative Coalition panel discussion in Los Angeles about violence in the media, Lewis pushed the Scientology agenda the minute she got her chance. She ambushed moderator Carl Bernstein when she announced that what was really affecting children today was not violence in the media. The real culprit, she said, was psychotropic drugs. Scientologists, including Alley and Elfman, are vehemently against kids with illnesses like Attention Deficit Disorder getting psychiatric treatment or drugs like Ritalin. Dharma and Greg’s very affable co-executive producer Bill Prady told me that the propensity of Scientologists is merely a manifestation of who Elfman’s friends are. ‘Really, stunt casting is the bane of my existence. We go to the cast and say, ‘Who are your friends?’ And, ‘Who can you get?’ Jenna’s friends with Kirstie and with Juliette, so they came. One of our writers is friends with Bob Dylan, that’s how we got him. Right now we’re hoping to get Olivia Newton-John, who’s a friend of someone here. It’s really that simple.'”
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“YouTube routinely takes down videos after DMCA complaints without any sort of review, especially if the complaint comes from a paying customer.”
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Full Court Press: What we’re watching at the Underground Bunker
Criminal prosecutions:
— Danny Masterson charged for raping three women: Found guilty on two counts on May 31, remanded to custody. Sentenced to 30 years to life on Sep 7, 2023. DA’s response to appeal brief due August 13.
— ‘Lafayette Ronald Hubbard’ (a/k/a Justin Craig), aggravated assault, plus drug charges: Grand jury indictments include charges from an assault while in custody. Next pretrial hearing December 1.
Civil litigation:
— Baxter, Baxter, and Paris v. Scientology, alleging labor trafficking: Forced to arbitration.
— Valerie Haney v. Scientology: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’
— Chrissie Bixler et al. v. Scientology and Danny Masterson. Judge Upindra Kalra’s ruling denying Scientology’s motion to strike is on appeal. Jane Does’ response to Scientology’s appeal brief submitted July 30. Scientology’s reply due October 20.
— Jane Doe 1 v. Scientology, David Miscavige, and Gavin Potter: Case unsealed and second amended complaint filed. Scientology moves for religious arbitration, gets ruling to depose Jane Doe 1. Trial has been set for January 10, 2028.
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After the success of their double-Emmy-winning, three-season A&E series ‘Scientology and the Aftermath,’ Leah Remini and Mike Rinder continue the conversation on their podcast, ‘Scientology: Fair Game.’ We’ve created a landing page where you can hear all of the episodes so far.
LEAH REMINI: SCIENTOLOGY AND THE AFTERMATH
An episode-by-episode guide to Leah Remini’s three-season, double-Emmy winning series that changed everything for Scientology watching. Originally aired from 2016 to 2019 on the A&E network, and now on Netflix.
SCIENTOLOGY’S CELEBRITIES, from A to Z
Find your favorite Hubbardite celeb at this index page — or suggest someone to add to the list!
Other links: SCIENTOLOGY BLACK OPS: Tom Cruise and dirty tricks. Scientology’s Ideal Orgs, from one end of the planet to the other. Scientology’s sneaky front groups, spreading the good news about L. Ron Hubbard while pretending to benefit society. Scientology Lit: Books reviewed or excerpted in a weekly series. How many have you read?
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THE WHOLE TRACK
[ONE year ago] One year ago: The sentencing hearing that put Scientology celeb Danny Masterson away
[TWO years ago] Danny Masterson’s attorneys ask for concurrent sentences to lessen his time
[THREE years ago] The best TV show on Scientology you never got to see, Episode 5: Jamie DeWolf
[FOUR years ago] Why Scientology celebrity Elisabeth Moss is problematic as an icon of reproductive rights
[FIVE years ago] Prosecutors: Judge isn’t getting the point about Dennis Nobbe’s post-arrest shenanigans
[SIX years ago] More filmmakers who are helping out Scientology with its TV network
[SEVEN years ago] Another life connected to Scientology ends in despair, as so many do
[EIGHT years ago] Forced to open its books, one overseas Scientology rehab shows that business is grim
[NINE years ago] Scientology’s secret sites: The Bunker premieres drone footage never before seen of ‘Int Base’
[TEN years ago] TEN YEARS GONE: Shelly Miscavige, the wife Scientology’s leader wants us to forget
[ELEVEN years ago] Sunday Funnies: Scientology is going down in style!
[TWELVE years ago] Scientology Heresy: Jon Atack on L. Ron Hubbard’s Debt to Psychiatry
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Bernie Headley (1952-2019) did not see his daughter Stephanie in his final 5,667 days.
Joe Reaiche (1958-2024) did not see his daughter Alanna Masterson in his final 6,999 days.
Mike Rinder (1955-2025) did not see his son Benjamin and daughter Taryn in his final 7,589 days.
Tammy Synovec has not seen her daughter Julia in 3,379 days.
Valerie Haney has not seen her mother Lynne in 3,883 days.
Katrina Reyes has not seen her mother Yelena in 4,389 days
Sylvia Wagner DeWall has not seen her brother Randy in 3,939 days.
Brian Sheen has not seen his grandson Leo in 2,929 days.
Klaus Büchele has not seen his daughter Jasmin in 5,315 days.
Geoff Levin has not seen his son Collin and daughter Savannah in 2,810 days.
Christie Collbran has not seen her mother Liz King in 6,114 days.
Marc Headley has not seen his mother Trudy in 4,765 days.
Clarissa Adams has not seen her parents Walter and Irmin Huber in 3,983 days.
Jamie Sorrentini Lugli has not seen her father Irving in 5,537 days.
Quailynn McDaniel has not seen her brother Sean in 4,878 days.
Dylan Gill has not seen his father Russell in 13,449 days.
Melissa Paris has not seen her father Jean-Francois in 9,365 days.
Valeska Paris has not seen her brother Raphael in 5,532 days.
Mirriam Francis has not seen her brother Ben in 5,114 days.
Claudio and Renata Lugli have not seen their son Flavio in 5,373 days.
Sara Goldberg has not seen her daughter Ashley in 4,410 days.
Lori Hodgson has not seen her son Jeremy and daughter Jessica in 4,126 days.
Marie Poulin has not seen her mother June in 3,690 days.
Julian Wain has not seen his brother Joseph or mother Susan in 2,005 days.
Charley Updegrove has not seen his son Toby in 3,180 days.
Derek Bloch has not seen his father Darren in 4,862 days.
Cindy Plahuta has not seen her daughter Kara in 5,199 days.
Roger Weller has not seen his daughter Alyssa in 10,052 days.
Claire Headley has not seen her mother Gen in 5,168 days.
Ramana Dienes-Browning has not seen her mother Jancis in 3,530 days.
Brian Sheen has not seen his daughter Spring in 3,941 days.
Skip Young has not seen his daughters Megan and Alexis in 4,329 days.
Mary Kahn has not seen her son Sammy in 4,213 days.
Lois Reisdorf has not seen her son Craig in 3,778 days.
Phil and Willie Jones have not seen their son Mike and daughter Emily in 4,289 days.
Mary Jane Barry has not seen her daughter Samantha in 4,549 days.
Kate Bornstein has not seen her daughter Jessica in 15,653 days.
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Posted by Tony Ortega on September 7, 2025 at 07:00
E-mail tips to tonyo94 AT gmail DOT com or follow us on Twitter. We also post updates at our Facebook author page. After every new story we send out an alert to our e-mail list and our FB page.
Our new book with Paulette Cooper, Battlefield Scientology: Exposing L. Ron Hubbard’s dangerous ‘religion’ is now on sale at Amazon in paperback and Kindle formats. Our book about Paulette, The Unbreakable Miss Lovely: How the Church of Scientology tried to destroy Paulette Cooper, is on sale at Amazon in paperback, Kindle, and audiobook versions. We’ve posted photographs of Paulette and scenes from her life at a separate location. Reader Sookie put together a complete index. More information can also be found at the book’s dedicated page.
The Best of the Underground Bunker, 1995-2023 Just starting out here? We’ve picked out the most important stories we’ve covered here at the Underground Bunker (2012-2023), The Village Voice (2008-2012), New Times Los Angeles (1999-2002) and the Phoenix New Times (1995-1999)
Other links: BLOGGING DIANETICS: Reading Scientology’s founding text cover to cover | UP THE BRIDGE: Claire Headley and Bruce Hines train us as Scientologists | GETTING OUR ETHICS IN: Jefferson Hawkins explains Scientology’s system of justice | SCIENTOLOGY MYTHBUSTING: Historian Jon Atack discusses key Scientology concepts | Shelly Miscavige, 15 years gone | The Lisa McPherson story told in real time | The Cathriona White stories | The Leah Remini ‘Knowledge Reports’ | Hear audio of a Scientology excommunication | Scientology’s little day care of horrors | Whatever happened to Steve Fishman? | Felony charges for Scientology’s drug rehab scam | Why Scientology digs bomb-proof vaults in the desert | PZ Myers reads L. Ron Hubbard’s “A History of Man” | Scientology’s Master Spies | The mystery of the richest Scientologist and his wayward sons | Scientology’s shocking mistreatment of the mentally ill | The Underground Bunker’s Official Theme Song | The Underground Bunker FAQ
Watch our short videos that explain Scientology’s controversies in three minutes or less…
Check your whale level at our dedicated page for status updates, or join us at the Underground Bunker’s Facebook discussion group for more frivolity.
Our non-Scientology stories: Robert Burnham Jr., the man who inscribed the universe | Notorious alt-right inspiration Kevin MacDonald and his theories about Jewish DNA | The selling of the “Phoenix Lights” | Astronomer Harlow Shapley‘s FBI file | Sex, spies, and local TV news | Battling Babe-Hounds: Ross Jeffries v. R. Don Steele
Tony Ortega at The Daily Beast
Trump threatening Chicago, Vance touting war crimes, and libturds weep
Some links to Q-related items today
Advertisement(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});5 things Trump did this week:
1. Threatened Republicans trying to release the Epstein files
2. Thought he could use a flag as a blanket at night
3. Blamed others for terrible jobs numbers
4. Posted Pete Hegseth stolen valor hype video
5. Went golfing again pic.twitter.com/2jIJbHzjrj
— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) September 6, 2025
One heartbeat away pic.twitter.com/OneyiNT5kh
— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) September 6, 2025
The White House deleted this video that falsely claimed Pete Hegseth was awarded “the Bronze Star Medal for valor.”
Hegseth was awarded two Bronze Star Medals for *meritorious service* NOT acts of heroism in combat. #StolenValor pic.twitter.com/9QtVmRLhG9
— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) September 6, 2025
Trump hiding from reporters at his golf club today pic.twitter.com/CyVL2LL09z
— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) September 7, 2025
Pretty sure this was just normal FBI informant stuff pic.twitter.com/ETG3TeUVQk
— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) September 7, 2025
Wow. This is a quite a pic made by a follower pic.twitter.com/fKe1CXh5ny
— Dr. Christine Sarteschi, LCSW (@DrSarteschi) September 6, 2025
"Trump wasn't recovering from an undisclosed medical issue. He was on Zoom meetings with Putin and Xi about how they are totally going to defeat the Deep State." QAnon is the kid at in 1st grade telling all his friends his dad is a spy and that's why he's never around. pic.twitter.com/R2QCX89F8V
— Poker and Politics (@PokerPolitics) September 7, 2025
Having to spend all of 2024 listening to QAnon screaming about how they couldn’t wait for this to happen and then see so many people on all sides of the political spectrum tell me it was no big deal if Trump won makes me want to scream. This happening was obvious and inevitable. pic.twitter.com/VGuirukT9Q
— Poker and Politics (@PokerPolitics) September 6, 2025
Looking for some background on the QAnon movement? We recommend Travis View’s excellent article at New York magazine as a place to start.
THE LOWDOWN is our blog for news, the QAnon phenomenon, and other subjects not related to our coverage of the Church of Scientology. If it’s our Scientology coverage you re looking for, please use this bookmark for our latest stories.
Posted by Tony Ortega on September 7, 2025 at 08:00
September 6, 2025
Common roots of Scientology & Nazi occultism: Jon Atack’s shocking new book!
TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: We talked with Jon Atack about his new book that dives head first into the weird side of L. Ron Hubbard and Scientology, reaching back more than a century to trace the disturbing ideas that can also be seen in the occultism of the Nazi movement. It’s Atack at his best! [What is this Substack thing, anyway?]
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Technology Cocktail
“The state of Clear can be achieved on Dianetics. I have now determined there is no such thing as Keyed-Out Clear. There is only a Dianetic Clear and he is a Clear. The state of Dianetic Clear means the pc has erased his Dianetic case or mental image pictures; he has attained the ability to be at cause over mental matter, energy, space and time on the First Dynamic. When this happens the person is not run further on Dianetics. He can be given Touch or Contact Assists (as can Scn Clears and OTs), and can be given NED for OTs once he is OT III. He is not to be given any Dianetic Auditing Assist nor any Dianetic auditing. (He can, of course, receive any actions on the Assist Summary bulletin, excluding R3RA.)” — L. Ron Hubbard, 1979
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THE PROSECUTION OF DANNY MASTERSON
We first broke the news of the LAPD’s investigation of Scientology celebrity Danny Masterson on rape allegations in 2017, and we’ve been covering the story every step of the way since then. At this page we’ve collected our most important links as Danny faces a potential sentence of 45 years to life in prison. NOW WITH TRIAL INDEX.
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THE PODCAST: How many have you heard?
[1] Marc Headley [2] Claire Headley [3] Jeffrey Augustine [4] Bruce Hines [5] Sunny Pereira [6] Pete Griffiths [7] Geoff Levin [8] Patty Moher [9] Marc Headley [10] Jefferson Hawkins [11] Michelle ‘Emma’ Ryan [12] Paulette Cooper [13] Jesse Prince [14] Mark Bunker [15] Jon Atack [16] Mirriam Francis [17] Bruce Hines on MSH
— SPECIAL: The best TV show on Scientology you never got to see
[1] Phil Jones [2] Derek Bloch [3] Carol Nyburg [4] Katrina Reyes [5] Jamie DeWolf
— The first Danny Masterson trial and beyond
Advertisement(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});[18] Trial special with Chris Shelton [19] Trial week one [20] Marc Headley on the spy in the hallway [21] Trial week two [22] Trial week three [23] Trial week four [24] Leah Remini on LAPD Corruption [25] Mike Rinder 2022 Thanksgiving Special [26] Jane Doe 4 (Tricia Vessey), Part One [27] Jane Doe 4 (Tricia Vessey), Part Two [28] Claire Headley on the trial [29] Tory Christman [30] Bruce Hines on spying [31] Karen de la Carriere [32] Ron Miscavige on Shelly Miscavige [33] Karen de la Carriere on the L’s [34] Mark Bunker on Miscavige hiding [35] Mark Plummer [36] Mark Ebner [37] Karen Pressley [38] Steve Cannane [39] Fredrick Brennan [40] Clarissa Adams [41] Louise Shekter [42] John Sweeney [43] Tory Christman [44] Kate Bornstein [45] Christian Stolte [46] Mark Bunker [47] Jon Atack [48] Luke Y. Thompson [49] Mark Ebner [50] Bruce Hines [51] Spanky Taylor and Karen Pressley [51] Geoff and Robbie Levin [52] Sands Hall [53] Jonny Jacobsen [54] Sandy Holeman [55] Mark Bunker [56] Trish and Liz Conley [57] Trish Conley [58] Alex Barnes-Ross [59] Alex Barnes-Ross [60] Alex Barnes-Ross [61] Alex Barnes-Ross [62] Alex Barnes-Ross [63] Alex Barnes-Ross [64] Tory Christman [65] Tammy Synovec [66] Dennis Erlich [67] Alex Barnes-Ross [68] Valerie Ross [69] Kat in Austin [70] Mark Bunker [71] Phil Jones
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“Back about 1605, something like that, I was set up, I won’t go into the story in any great degree. But it took a warship and a company of marines and a broadside to kill one girl. She was protected by four redcoats and me. And of course, we caught it in the first three seconds of play. Don’t you see, that was the end of us. But it was such a terrific ferocity against this girl, who by the way, was blind. And her face was so disfigured through a bomb assassination attempt, when she was a child at seven, that she had to wear a mask. A whole man-of-war and a company of marines landing in boats and a full broadside to kill this one girl. She was the last of the family of Charles V. She was the granddaughter aspirant of the old Holy Roman Empire, and one of the innumerable French that lived down here about sixty miles had decided she was a great menace to the throne. Well, I was being audited one day. I found myself sitting around with a picture of a girl on a rock, apparently about 1870. Didn’t compare with any track I had. Nice exterior view. It just didn’t make sense. Here was a girl, sitting on a rock in exactly the same location, in exactly the same place, and I knew what happened to the girl and I knew all about it and so forth, but I hadn’t ever known the girl. Fascinating. Apparently I’d kept a spot of attention on this person as a thetan for the next couple of hundred years. It was very intriguing. Funny part of it is that this girl, picking up another body after that, had gone along for a very long time and had then happened accidentally to be taken by her parents to exactly the same rock that she was killed on in 1605. And she became very ill and she sickened and she died! Just keyed her in complete. You possibly know the place. It’s right across from Gibraltar, and the Hotel Reina Christina is on the Spanish coast side. And it’s one of those rocks right close to the Reina Christina Hotel. And of course, it’s a tourist resort and her parents had taken her back there. What a dirty trick. That must have been some vacation, man!” — L. Ron Hubbard, September 6, 1961
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“ATTENTION, ATTENTION: For this afternoon at 1500 when the Newsreel cameraman will come board to film the ship, please be sure to not war the clear bracelet, otherwise it could be noticed in the film. Thank you!” — Love, Jone, PRO I/T, September 6, 1971
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“That awkward moment when you do an OCA to somebody and discover she’s crazy.”
2000: Christianity Today published articles this week on Scientology and its attempt to dominate Clearwater. “Some Christians in Clearwater call Scientology a pushy, money-driven cult that preys on the vulnerable. Others avoid confrontation, striving to tolerate or even welcome Scientology as a member of the religious community. Bill Anderson, pastor of Calvary Baptist Church of Clearwater for the past 25 years, says it has been difficult to treat Scientologists with love while countering their teachings with biblical truth. ‘This has really sharpened my focus about the exclusivity of the gospel,’ Anderson told Christianity Today. ‘Part of my challenge as a pastor has been trying to help my people live not only as good people but to live as good witnesses. Too often, I’m afraid, Christians are afraid to stand on the fact that only Jesus can save you.’ Scientologists have made persistent and persuasive efforts to win the favor of key officials and municipal leaders in Clearwater. Scientology members clean vacant lots, plant sea oats to stop beach erosion, and hang holiday decorations in December. They led volunteer citizen councils to prepare the city for Y2K and created their own Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops. Scientologists hold annual parties for local orphans, support anti-drug education in community schools, and sponsor Winter Wonderland, a children’s carnival, every Christmas season. Scientologists say they were welcomed by some religious leaders, including Otis and Barbara Green of Everybody’s Tabernacle, the rabbinic leaders of Congregation of Beth Shalom, and the United Church of Christ’s hospice director, Doyce Wise. Largely unwelcome in most of Clearwater’s religious circles, Scientologists created their own interfaith council and launched ministry projects for the community. Scientologists also actively engaged in community service, outchurching Clearwater’s Christians. But some residents question their desire to serve. ‘Their true agenda is control,’ Anderson says. ‘They don’t really want to be known. They want to get along like a tiger wants to get along with a rabbit.’ Ben Puckett, dean of enrollment at Clearwater Christian College adds that some Scientology outreach in Clearwater is not openly affiliated with the church. ‘They have a great deal of good-will programs that are so general and euphemistic that unless you ask, you wouldn’t know they are Scientology-run,’ Puckett says, citing Narconon, Criminon, and the True School, a Scientology elementary school, as examples. ‘It’s generally believed that fewer people visit the downtown area because of the hundreds of uniformed Scientologists walking the streets,’ says Marshall Van Dine, minister of First United Methodist Church of Clearwater. ‘But most people have accepted their presence in the community.’ ‘A lot of what they have done downtown has been seen as positive and community-building,’ Pastor C. Philip Whitener of Grace Lutheran Church told CT. But, he wonders, ‘How much control will they exert?’ Craig Branch of the Apologetics Resource Institute and former Scientologist Brian Haney visited Clearwater in April to encourage and educate church members. Branch says he senses a new urgency in local pastors to stand up in a spirit of Christian love against Scientology. ‘We’re concerned about the balance between educating people on Scientology’s false claims and yet still urging them to act with love and compassion toward Scientologists,’ he says. ‘These churches are committed to forming a prayer front and developing a heart for people who are really suffering spiritually.’ Brian Haney labored to give his life fulfillment in many ways. The 37-year-old entrepreneur had been through two marriages, built a $100 million corporation, and attained the coveted state of ‘clear’ as a Scientologist, meaning he had achieved the high level of freedom, personal control, and independence Scientology promises its followers. But none of these triumphs allayed his spiritual emptiness and dissatisfaction. ‘They tell you that you’ve made it, that you’re in, and you just keep walking around thinking: Shouldn’t I feel different?’ Haney told Christianity Today. In 1994, Haney and his wife left the Church of Scientology, though they faced great resistance. At one point they contacted local police with concerns about their safety. He began attending St. John’s African Methodist Episcopal Church with his wife and children. ‘I must have listened to about 50 sermons of Spirit-filled, Word-based teaching before I realized that I needed to give my life to Christ,’ Haney said. ‘I was worried. I had joined a cult in the past, so I wanted to know how to discern the truth.’ As Haney’s faith grew, his disappointment toward Scientology softened. ‘At first I was really mad. I mean they ripped me off,’ Haney says, estimating that he gave more than $1 million to the church. ‘But as I grew in my walk with God, I realized that I just feel sorry for the people trapped in that mindset. It makes me want to weep now, not fight them.'”
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“The church that never forgives and never forgets. The Scientologists always pay their debts.”
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Full Court Press: What we’re watching at the Underground Bunker
Criminal prosecutions:
— Danny Masterson charged for raping three women: Found guilty on two counts on May 31, remanded to custody. Sentenced to 30 years to life on Sep 7, 2023. DA’s response to appeal brief due August 13.
— ‘Lafayette Ronald Hubbard’ (a/k/a Justin Craig), aggravated assault, plus drug charges: Grand jury indictments include charges from an assault while in custody. Next pretrial hearing December 1.
Civil litigation:
— Baxter, Baxter, and Paris v. Scientology, alleging labor trafficking: Forced to arbitration.
— Valerie Haney v. Scientology: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’
— Chrissie Bixler et al. v. Scientology and Danny Masterson. Judge Upindra Kalra’s ruling denying Scientology’s motion to strike is on appeal. Jane Does’ response to Scientology’s appeal brief submitted July 30. Scientology’s reply due October 20.
— Jane Doe 1 v. Scientology, David Miscavige, and Gavin Potter: Case unsealed and second amended complaint filed. Scientology moves for religious arbitration, gets ruling to depose Jane Doe 1. Trial has been set for January 10, 2028.
——————–
After the success of their double-Emmy-winning, three-season A&E series ‘Scientology and the Aftermath,’ Leah Remini and Mike Rinder continue the conversation on their podcast, ‘Scientology: Fair Game.’ We’ve created a landing page where you can hear all of the episodes so far.
LEAH REMINI: SCIENTOLOGY AND THE AFTERMATH
An episode-by-episode guide to Leah Remini’s three-season, double-Emmy winning series that changed everything for Scientology watching. Originally aired from 2016 to 2019 on the A&E network, and now on Netflix.
SCIENTOLOGY’S CELEBRITIES, from A to Z
Find your favorite Hubbardite celeb at this index page — or suggest someone to add to the list!
Other links: SCIENTOLOGY BLACK OPS: Tom Cruise and dirty tricks. Scientology’s Ideal Orgs, from one end of the planet to the other. Scientology’s sneaky front groups, spreading the good news about L. Ron Hubbard while pretending to benefit society. Scientology Lit: Books reviewed or excerpted in a weekly series. How many have you read?
——————–
THE WHOLE TRACK
[ONE year ago] Uncovering Scientology schemers: A tale of journalistic perseverance
[TWO years ago] Indie Scientologists go on the attack: Victoria Palmer plans Sep 23 protest at Big Blue
[THREE years ago] How Scientology churchified itself to capitalize on its IRS tax exemption
[FOUR years ago] On this Labor Day, some insane stories of labor in Scientology’s ‘Sea Org’
[FIVE years ago] New letter about Scientology by J. Edgar Hoover shows up in FBI records search
[SIX years ago] Elisabeth Moss snows another reporter about Scientology, but this one really hurts
[SEVEN years ago] Finally, Captain David Miscavige’s faux-military Scientology ribbons, described and decoded!
[EIGHT years ago] Scientology’s ultimate prize: For the first time online, the current ‘OT 8’ materials laid bare
[NINE years ago] As Louis Theroux’s Scientology movie hits theaters, its main subject accuses it of deception
[TEN years ago] VIDEO LEAK: Rare look at Captain David Miscavige giving shipboard Scientology briefing
target=”_blank”>[ELEVEN years ago] Deputy ambassador of a small African nation? Scientology wants to buy you lunch![TWELVE years ago] VIDEO: Scientology Leader David Miscavige’s Weird Explanation for the IRS Victory
——————–
Bernie Headley (1952-2019) did not see his daughter Stephanie in his final 5,667 days.
Joe Reaiche (1958-2024) did not see his daughter Alanna Masterson in his final 6,999 days.
Mike Rinder (1955-2025) did not see his son Benjamin and daughter Taryn in his final 7,589 days.
Tammy Synovec has not seen her daughter Julia in 3,378 days.
Valerie Haney has not seen her mother Lynne in 3,882 days.
Katrina Reyes has not seen her mother Yelena in 4,388 days
Sylvia Wagner DeWall has not seen her brother Randy in 3,938 days.
Brian Sheen has not seen his grandson Leo in 2,928 days.
Klaus Büchele has not seen his daughter Jasmin in 5,314 days.
Geoff Levin has not seen his son Collin and daughter Savannah in 2,809 days.
Christie Collbran has not seen her mother Liz King in 6,113 days.
Marc Headley has not seen his mother Trudy in 4,764 days.
Clarissa Adams has not seen her parents Walter and Irmin Huber in 3,982 days.
Jamie Sorrentini Lugli has not seen her father Irving in 5,536 days.
Quailynn McDaniel has not seen her brother Sean in 4,877 days.
Dylan Gill has not seen his father Russell in 13,448 days.
Melissa Paris has not seen her father Jean-Francois in 9,364 days.
Valeska Paris has not seen her brother Raphael in 5,531 days.
Mirriam Francis has not seen her brother Ben in 5,113 days.
Claudio and Renata Lugli have not seen their son Flavio in 5,372 days.
Sara Goldberg has not seen her daughter Ashley in 4,409 days.
Lori Hodgson has not seen her son Jeremy and daughter Jessica in 4,125 days.
Marie Poulin has not seen her mother June in 3,689 days.
Julian Wain has not seen his brother Joseph or mother Susan in 2,004 days.
Charley Updegrove has not seen his son Toby in 3,179 days.
Derek Bloch has not seen his father Darren in 4,861 days.
Cindy Plahuta has not seen her daughter Kara in 5,198 days.
Roger Weller has not seen his daughter Alyssa in 10,051 days.
Claire Headley has not seen her mother Gen in 5,167 days.
Ramana Dienes-Browning has not seen her mother Jancis in 3,529 days.
Brian Sheen has not seen his daughter Spring in 3,940 days.
Skip Young has not seen his daughters Megan and Alexis in 4,328 days.
Mary Kahn has not seen her son Sammy in 4,212 days.
Lois Reisdorf has not seen her son Craig in 3,777 days.
Phil and Willie Jones have not seen their son Mike and daughter Emily in 4,288 days.
Mary Jane Barry has not seen her daughter Samantha in 4,548 days.
Kate Bornstein has not seen her daughter Jessica in 15,652 days.
——————–
Posted by Tony Ortega on September 6, 2025 at 07:00
E-mail tips to tonyo94 AT gmail DOT com or follow us on Twitter. We also post updates at our Facebook author page. After every new story we send out an alert to our e-mail list and our FB page.
Our new book with Paulette Cooper, Battlefield Scientology: Exposing L. Ron Hubbard’s dangerous ‘religion’ is now on sale at Amazon in paperback and Kindle formats. Our book about Paulette, The Unbreakable Miss Lovely: How the Church of Scientology tried to destroy Paulette Cooper, is on sale at Amazon in paperback, Kindle, and audiobook versions. We’ve posted photographs of Paulette and scenes from her life at a separate location. Reader Sookie put together a complete index. More information can also be found at the book’s dedicated page.
The Best of the Underground Bunker, 1995-2023 Just starting out here? We’ve picked out the most important stories we’ve covered here at the Underground Bunker (2012-2023), The Village Voice (2008-2012), New Times Los Angeles (1999-2002) and the Phoenix New Times (1995-1999)
Other links: BLOGGING DIANETICS: Reading Scientology’s founding text cover to cover | UP THE BRIDGE: Claire Headley and Bruce Hines train us as Scientologists | GETTING OUR ETHICS IN: Jefferson Hawkins explains Scientology’s system of justice | SCIENTOLOGY MYTHBUSTING: Historian Jon Atack discusses key Scientology concepts | Shelly Miscavige, 15 years gone | The Lisa McPherson story told in real time | The Cathriona White stories | The Leah Remini ‘Knowledge Reports’ | Hear audio of a Scientology excommunication | Scientology’s little day care of horrors | Whatever happened to Steve Fishman? | Felony charges for Scientology’s drug rehab scam | Why Scientology digs bomb-proof vaults in the desert | PZ Myers reads L. Ron Hubbard’s “A History of Man” | Scientology’s Master Spies | The mystery of the richest Scientologist and his wayward sons | Scientology’s shocking mistreatment of the mentally ill | The Underground Bunker’s Official Theme Song | The Underground Bunker FAQ
Watch our short videos that explain Scientology’s controversies in three minutes or less…
Check your whale level at our dedicated page for status updates, or join us at the Underground Bunker’s Facebook discussion group for more frivolity.
Our non-Scientology stories: Robert Burnham Jr., the man who inscribed the universe | Notorious alt-right inspiration Kevin MacDonald and his theories about Jewish DNA | The selling of the “Phoenix Lights” | Astronomer Harlow Shapley‘s FBI file | Sex, spies, and local TV news | Battling Babe-Hounds: Ross Jeffries v. R. Don Steele
Tony Ortega at The Daily Beast
Johnson offers the QAnon version: Trump was an FBI informant on Epstein
Some links to Q-related items today
Advertisement(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});BRUTAL JOBS REPORT: Just 22,000 jobs added in August. Unemployment rises to 4.3%. Broader jobless rate jumps to 8.1%. Slowest 4-month growth since 2020. Plus, downward revisions for June and July of -21,000. Yikes. pic.twitter.com/j8Qdxo8je4
— MeidasTouch (@MeidasTouch) September 5, 2025
This is literally the QAnon explanation for why Trump hung out with Epstein. He was just trying to take the pedo ring down from the inside. https://t.co/BzekXIvIyi
— Will Sommer (@willsommer) September 5, 2025
For those of you who didn’t know, the nonsense Speaker Johnson was talking about Trump being an FBI informant working to take down Epstein has been a mainstream belief in QAnon for years. pic.twitter.com/Dv0VU6xGKY
— Poker and Politics (@PokerPolitics) September 6, 2025
I wrote a guest post for Meidas about the illegal boat strike. I was taught in the Marines that the law was about discipline, and leading by example. America is safer in a world where the rule of law means something. (1/5)
https://t.co/sVsBKZd0VO
— Conor Lamb (@ConorLambPA) September 5, 2025
Sad pic.twitter.com/8ZOvs4StKp
— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) September 5, 2025
8 months in, still blaming Biden https://t.co/gjP4ZHQ7wk
— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) September 5, 2025
*Offer excludes the Epstein files and his clients https://t.co/R5dFJpEJP1
— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) September 5, 2025
A bloodthirsty warmonger who dismisses human rights is in charge of the U.S. military https://t.co/4pfW0XEc2e
— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) September 5, 2025
No cross necklace. Must still be Epstein cover up season. pic.twitter.com/8aB4m3PupK
— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) September 5, 2025
QAnon hates the principles this nation was founded on. They want a white enthno state run by a Christian theocracy. They will burn the Constitution and declare it Satanic the first chance they get. pic.twitter.com/wbHtPrWnjL
— Poker and Politics (@PokerPolitics) September 5, 2025
Looking for some background on the QAnon movement? We recommend Travis View’s excellent article at New York magazine as a place to start.
THE LOWDOWN is our blog for news, the QAnon phenomenon, and other subjects not related to our coverage of the Church of Scientology. If it’s our Scientology coverage you re looking for, please use this bookmark for our latest stories.
Posted by Tony Ortega on September 6, 2025 at 08:00
September 5, 2025
John Travolta jet-home not for sale, but is caught up in litigation, criminal case
TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: Despite what you might have heard elsewhere, John Travolta’s aviation-home in Ocala is not for sale, but it is caught up in litigation with the airpark’s new owners, as well as a fascinating criminal case we’ve been watching, and which may drag Travolta into court. [What is this Substack thing, anyway?]
——————–
Technology Cocktail
Advertisement(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});“Although the newly revised Int Rundown uses New Era Dianetics R3RA commands, with the assessed Int button as the running item, the rundown and its repair do NOT include the use of New Era Dianetics preassessment (nor any form of AESPs). In Int you can only address Int. A preassessment addresses something else. Wins are sometimes reported on the use of preassessment on Int but it is a dangerous and dicey procedure. It isn’t really directly addressing Int. That actually violates the law that when handling Int you run only Int, nothing else.” — L. Ron Hubbard, 1979
——————–
THE PROSECUTION OF DANNY MASTERSON
We first broke the news of the LAPD’s investigation of Scientology celebrity Danny Masterson on rape allegations in 2017, and we’ve been covering the story every step of the way since then. At this page we’ve collected our most important links as Danny faces a potential sentence of 45 years to life in prison. NOW WITH TRIAL INDEX.
——————–
THE PODCAST: How many have you heard?
[1] Marc Headley [2] Claire Headley [3] Jeffrey Augustine [4] Bruce Hines [5] Sunny Pereira [6] Pete Griffiths [7] Geoff Levin [8] Patty Moher [9] Marc Headley [10] Jefferson Hawkins [11] Michelle ‘Emma’ Ryan [12] Paulette Cooper [13] Jesse Prince [14] Mark Bunker [15] Jon Atack [16] Mirriam Francis [17] Bruce Hines on MSH
— SPECIAL: The best TV show on Scientology you never got to see
[1] Phil Jones [2] Derek Bloch [3] Carol Nyburg [4] Katrina Reyes [5] Jamie DeWolf
— The first Danny Masterson trial and beyond
[18] Trial special with Chris Shelton [19] Trial week one [20] Marc Headley on the spy in the hallway [21] Trial week two [22] Trial week three [23] Trial week four [24] Leah Remini on LAPD Corruption [25] Mike Rinder 2022 Thanksgiving Special [26] Jane Doe 4 (Tricia Vessey), Part One [27] Jane Doe 4 (Tricia Vessey), Part Two [28] Claire Headley on the trial [29] Tory Christman [30] Bruce Hines on spying [31] Karen de la Carriere [32] Ron Miscavige on Shelly Miscavige [33] Karen de la Carriere on the L’s [34] Mark Bunker on Miscavige hiding [35] Mark Plummer [36] Mark Ebner [37] Karen Pressley [38] Steve Cannane [39] Fredrick Brennan [40] Clarissa Adams [41] Louise Shekter [42] John Sweeney [43] Tory Christman [44] Kate Bornstein [45] Christian Stolte [46] Mark Bunker [47] Jon Atack [48] Luke Y. Thompson [49] Mark Ebner [50] Bruce Hines [51] Spanky Taylor and Karen Pressley [51] Geoff and Robbie Levin [52] Sands Hall [53] Jonny Jacobsen [54] Sandy Holeman [55] Mark Bunker [56] Trish and Liz Conley [57] Trish Conley [58] Alex Barnes-Ross [59] Alex Barnes-Ross [60] Alex Barnes-Ross [61] Alex Barnes-Ross [62] Alex Barnes-Ross [63] Alex Barnes-Ross [64] Tory Christman [65] Tammy Synovec [66] Dennis Erlich [67] Alex Barnes-Ross [68] Valerie Ross [69] Kat in Austin [70] Mark Bunker [71] Phil Jones
Advertisement(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});
——————–
“Confidence in treatment on this planet is at its lowest possible ebb. The only planet I know of where it dropped any lower was the Marcab Confederacy, and it dropped much lower in the Marcab Confederacy. The way they taught medicine there, they had a number of drawers with dead, dried tissue in them. And they’d drag these drawers out, you see, and show the students, ‘And this is a dried head, you see. And this is tissue that’s been affected by tuberculosis. And this is this…’ and it was all dried, and so forth, and that was their total command of medicine. The only thing that was wrong with this particular activity is these really were infected tissues, and they were still carrying the germ spores, which I thought was always a little bit rough. But I remember giving medical lectures occasionally, and any student gave me any trouble, why, I’d just drop some tubercular tissue on his desk. This was all sort of raw. But there it got to a point where you weren’t ever permitted to get a new body. And this is typical of many space opera societies and is getting typical of this one. This one will go along too.” — L. Ron Hubbard, September 5, 1961
——————–
“I cognited on why it feels so good to be at sea — This is the Sea Org — of course.” — Capt. W.B. Robertson, September 5, 1969
——————–
“DO NOT VOTE. Your vote will make zero positive difference in the outcome of the country’s future as all parties and the entire structure of voting is part of a huge negative creation and trap. By voting you immediately become ‘part’ and not ‘whole.’ By voting you become disempowered and no longer the person who decides your experience on Earth. It is the entire ‘democratic’ system that is the trap. There is no democracy. The system of democratic governance is designed and created to oppress the people of Earth. It is based on division, righteousness and aggression. The people are so busy fighting with each other that they do not see or are even interested in what really rules our reality. So… what rules our reality? YOU rule our reality. By giving your power away, you give the power to a system, person or organization to rule reality FOR YOU. So, what do you do instead? DO NOT VOTE. Create and support new educational, living and working structures and organizations. KNOW that covid19, global warming, racism and terrorism are ALL false flag creations made to DIVIDE AND CONTROL YOU. DO NOT get vaccinated for ANYTHING. This is very important.”
——————–
1999: Keith Henson reported that his lawsuit against the Internal Revenue Service has been dismissed. “Plaintiff H Keith Henson alleges that the IRS conspired with the Church of Scientology and various Church related entities to defraud the United States. More specifically Plaintiff alleges that the IRS unlawfully executed a ‘closing agreement’ granting the Church tax exempt status. Plaintiff alleges that the IRS’ conduct violated the Establishment clause of the Constitution of the United States. Plaintiff alleges that he has special standing to bring this action because the Church has allegedly ‘paid approximately one million dollars collected as ‘charitable donations’ to harass Plaintiff, up to and
including physical attack, and for other purposes which are clearly outside of the legislatively sanctioned uses of ‘charitable donations.” The United States moves to dismiss the action, contending that Plaintiff lacks standing, has failed to include an indispensable party, namely the Church, and cannot demonstrate waiver of sovereign immunity or that this Court otherwise has jurisdiction to hear this matter. Plaintiff asserts standing generally as a ‘federal taxpayer,’ claiming the public treasury has been harmed because of the IRS. In Flast, the Supreme Court held that a taxpayer will be a proper party to allege the unconstitutionality only of exercises of congressional power under the taxing and spending clause of the Constitution. Second, the Supreme Court required that the taxpayer ‘show that the challenged enactment exceeds specific constitutional limitations upon the exercise of the taxing and spending power.’ Plaintiff has failed to satisfy both of the Flast requirements. First, Plaintiff is not challenging congressional power, but rather challenging an executive branch action, the IRS execution of a closing agreement with the Church. Second, Plaintiff has failed to show, and cannot show that the IRS’ conduct exceeded constitutional limitations. Plaintiff has alleged that the IRS’ conduct violated the Establishment Clause of the Constitution. However, Plaintiff’s constitutional challenge is without merit in light of the Supreme Court’s holding in Hernandez V. Commissioner. Plaintiff appears to argue in the alternative that he has standing to assert his claims because the Church has used tax-exempt funds to harass Plaintiff with lawsuits and pay private investigators to attack his reputation and physically attack him while picketing. However, these alleged injuries are not ‘traceable’ to the IRS’ allegedly unlawful conduct. Furthermore, Plaintiff concedes that these alleged injuries are not likely to be redressed in this action. In other words, Plaintiff acknowledges that even if he were to prevail in this litigation, Plaintiff would he unable to stop the Church from continuing the alleged harmful conduct. Therefore, the Plaintiff lacks standing. For the reasons set forth above, the IRS’ motion to dismiss is GRANTED with prejudice. Dated: August 16, 1999 JAMES WARE United States District Judge”
——————–
“Dictators don’t like picking successors. It makes them nervous knowing there’s an official next guy. If DM croaks it will be just like when LRH croaked. He who dares, wins.”
——————–
Full Court Press: What we’re watching at the Underground Bunker
Criminal prosecutions:
— Danny Masterson charged for raping three women: Found guilty on two counts on May 31, remanded to custody. Sentenced to 30 years to life on Sep 7, 2023. DA’s response to appeal brief due August 13.
— ‘Lafayette Ronald Hubbard’ (a/k/a Justin Craig), aggravated assault, plus drug charges: Grand jury indictments include charges from an assault while in custody. Next pretrial hearing December 1.
Civil litigation:
— Baxter, Baxter, and Paris v. Scientology, alleging labor trafficking: Forced to arbitration.
— Valerie Haney v. Scientology: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’
— Chrissie Bixler et al. v. Scientology and Danny Masterson. Judge Upindra Kalra’s ruling denying Scientology’s motion to strike is on appeal. Jane Does’ response to Scientology’s appeal brief submitted July 30. Scientology’s reply due October 20.
— Jane Doe 1 v. Scientology, David Miscavige, and Gavin Potter: Case unsealed and second amended complaint filed. Scientology moves for religious arbitration, gets ruling to depose Jane Doe 1. Trial has been set for January 10, 2028.
——————–
After the success of their double-Emmy-winning, three-season A&E series ‘Scientology and the Aftermath,’ Leah Remini and Mike Rinder continue the conversation on their podcast, ‘Scientology: Fair Game.’ We’ve created a landing page where you can hear all of the episodes so far.
LEAH REMINI: SCIENTOLOGY AND THE AFTERMATH
An episode-by-episode guide to Leah Remini’s three-season, double-Emmy winning series that changed everything for Scientology watching. Originally aired from 2016 to 2019 on the A&E network, and now on Netflix.
SCIENTOLOGY’S CELEBRITIES, from A to Z
Find your favorite Hubbardite celeb at this index page — or suggest someone to add to the list!
Other links: SCIENTOLOGY BLACK OPS: Tom Cruise and dirty tricks. Scientology’s Ideal Orgs, from one end of the planet to the other. Scientology’s sneaky front groups, spreading the good news about L. Ron Hubbard while pretending to benefit society. Scientology Lit: Books reviewed or excerpted in a weekly series. How many have you read?
——————–
THE WHOLE TRACK
[ONE year ago] She made Scientology pay for its harassment: How did Bonnie Woods do it?
[TWO years ago] How Scientology lured a Sci-Fi fan, but drove him away with its lack of imagination
[THREE years ago] Confirmed: Law enforcement was informed about another alleged Danny Masterson victim
[FOUR years ago] Tom Cruise’s Scientology superpowers, No. 1: Shattering the suppression from a 15-year-old
[FIVE years ago] The Top 25 People Enabling Scientology, No. 16: James Packer
[SIX years ago] Available today, a new thriller based on a former Scientologist’s experiences
[SEVEN years ago] Scientology’s Colombia strategy becomes clear: It’s total war
[EIGHT years ago] Missouri school district boots sneaky Scientology front group after Underground Bunker article
[NINE years ago] As Scientology declines, its members are even giving up on their spooky super powers
[TEN years ago] Jon Atack: The mystery of mysteries that all Scientologists chase — and can never find
[TWELVE years ago] THE MARTY RATHBUN AFFIDAVIT: Scientology Leader David Miscavige Lied To Texas Court
——————–
Bernie Headley (1952-2019) did not see his daughter Stephanie in his final 5,667 days.
Joe Reaiche (1958-2024) did not see his daughter Alanna Masterson in his final 6,999 days.
Mike Rinder (1955-2025) did not see his son Benjamin and daughter Taryn in his final 7,589 days.
Tammy Synovec has not seen her daughter Julia in 3,377 days.
Valerie Haney has not seen her mother Lynne in 3,881 days.
Katrina Reyes has not seen her mother Yelena in 4,387 days
Sylvia Wagner DeWall has not seen her brother Randy in 3,937 days.
Brian Sheen has not seen his grandson Leo in 2,927 days.
Klaus Büchele has not seen his daughter Jasmin in 5,313 days.
Geoff Levin has not seen his son Collin and daughter Savannah in 2,808 days.
Christie Collbran has not seen her mother Liz King in 6,112 days.
Marc Headley has not seen his mother Trudy in 4,763 days.
Clarissa Adams has not seen her parents Walter and Irmin Huber in 3,981 days.
Jamie Sorrentini Lugli has not seen her father Irving in 5,535 days.
Quailynn McDaniel has not seen her brother Sean in 4,876 days.
Dylan Gill has not seen his father Russell in 13,447 days.
Melissa Paris has not seen her father Jean-Francois in 9,363 days.
Valeska Paris has not seen her brother Raphael in 5,530 days.
Mirriam Francis has not seen her brother Ben in 5,112 days.
Claudio and Renata Lugli have not seen their son Flavio in 5,371 days.
Sara Goldberg has not seen her daughter Ashley in 4,408 days.
Lori Hodgson has not seen her son Jeremy and daughter Jessica in 4,124 days.
Marie Poulin has not seen her mother June in 3,688 days.
Julian Wain has not seen his brother Joseph or mother Susan in 2,003 days.
Charley Updegrove has not seen his son Toby in 3,178 days.
Derek Bloch has not seen his father Darren in 4,860 days.
Cindy Plahuta has not seen her daughter Kara in 5,197 days.
Roger Weller has not seen his daughter Alyssa in 10,050 days.
Claire Headley has not seen her mother Gen in 5,166 days.
Ramana Dienes-Browning has not seen her mother Jancis in 3,528 days.
Brian Sheen has not seen his daughter Spring in 3,939 days.
Skip Young has not seen his daughters Megan and Alexis in 4,327 days.
Mary Kahn has not seen her son Sammy in 4,211 days.
Lois Reisdorf has not seen her son Craig in 3,776 days.
Phil and Willie Jones have not seen their son Mike and daughter Emily in 4,287 days.
Mary Jane Barry has not seen her daughter Samantha in 4,547 days.
Kate Bornstein has not seen her daughter Jessica in 15,651 days.
——————–
Posted by Tony Ortega on September 5, 2025 at 07:00
E-mail tips to tonyo94 AT gmail DOT com or follow us on Twitter. We also post updates at our Facebook author page. After every new story we send out an alert to our e-mail list and our FB page.
Our new book with Paulette Cooper, Battlefield Scientology: Exposing L. Ron Hubbard’s dangerous ‘religion’ is now on sale at Amazon in paperback and Kindle formats. Our book about Paulette, The Unbreakable Miss Lovely: How the Church of Scientology tried to destroy Paulette Cooper, is on sale at Amazon in paperback, Kindle, and audiobook versions. We’ve posted photographs of Paulette and scenes from her life at a separate location. Reader Sookie put together a complete index. More information can also be found at the book’s dedicated page.
The Best of the Underground Bunker, 1995-2023 Just starting out here? We’ve picked out the most important stories we’ve covered here at the Underground Bunker (2012-2023), The Village Voice (2008-2012), New Times Los Angeles (1999-2002) and the Phoenix New Times (1995-1999)
Other links: BLOGGING DIANETICS: Reading Scientology’s founding text cover to cover | UP THE BRIDGE: Claire Headley and Bruce Hines train us as Scientologists | GETTING OUR ETHICS IN: Jefferson Hawkins explains Scientology’s system of justice | SCIENTOLOGY MYTHBUSTING: Historian Jon Atack discusses key Scientology concepts | Shelly Miscavige, 15 years gone | The Lisa McPherson story told in real time | The Cathriona White stories | The Leah Remini ‘Knowledge Reports’ | Hear audio of a Scientology excommunication | Scientology’s little day care of horrors | Whatever happened to Steve Fishman? | Felony charges for Scientology’s drug rehab scam | Why Scientology digs bomb-proof vaults in the desert | PZ Myers reads L. Ron Hubbard’s “A History of Man” | Scientology’s Master Spies | The mystery of the richest Scientologist and his wayward sons | Scientology’s shocking mistreatment of the mentally ill | The Underground Bunker’s Official Theme Song | The Underground Bunker FAQ
Watch our short videos that explain Scientology’s controversies in three minutes or less…
Check your whale level at our dedicated page for status updates, or join us at the Underground Bunker’s Facebook discussion group for more frivolity.
Our non-Scientology stories: Robert Burnham Jr., the man who inscribed the universe | Notorious alt-right inspiration Kevin MacDonald and his theories about Jewish DNA | The selling of the “Phoenix Lights” | Astronomer Harlow Shapley‘s FBI file | Sex, spies, and local TV news | Battling Babe-Hounds: Ross Jeffries v. R. Don Steele
Tony Ortega at The Daily Beast
Art of the deal? Trump admits losing Russia, India to China
Some links to Q-related items today
Advertisement(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});Dealmaker Trump admits he lost India pic.twitter.com/ecfHQ8bsWz
— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) September 5, 2025
Trump woke up and had another mental fit, this time against Jerry Nadler pic.twitter.com/xHmcIWkarr
— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) September 5, 2025
Spencer Kuvin, lawyer for Epstein’s victims, says the FBI interviewed 40+ girls, some just 14, and prepared a 54-count indictment. Then came the secret plea deal that let Epstein walk. Those interviews are in the files. Kuvin says Alan Dershowitz scoured the girls’ MySpace pages… pic.twitter.com/zAQ6W4kLiI
— MeidasTouch (@MeidasTouch) September 5, 2025
Why won’t Trump investigate this? https://t.co/quaO4WUoLZ
— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) September 4, 2025
— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) September 4, 2025
Wildest bits for me from Kennedy's explosive hearing today. https://t.co/CMJL1NlvtD
— Brandy Zadrozny (@BrandyZadrozny) September 4, 2025
SCOOP:
In private anti-vaxxer Facebook groups, members celebrated Florida banning vaccine mandates, quickly calling on other states to follow suit.
“I shouldn’t have to inject my kids with poison because you’ve been brainwashed to live in fear,”https://t.co/FzhhuSzXMC
— David Gilbert (@daithaigilbert) September 4, 2025
Looking for some background on the QAnon movement? We recommend Travis View’s excellent article at New York magazine as a place to start.
THE LOWDOWN is our blog for news, the QAnon phenomenon, and other subjects not related to our coverage of the Church of Scientology. If it’s our Scientology coverage you re looking for, please use this bookmark for our latest stories.
Posted by Tony Ortega on September 5, 2025 at 08:00
September 4, 2025
Seizing guns at checkpoints: Isn’t this the future the NRA warned us about?
Some links to Q-related items today
Advertisement(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});Trump is setting up checkpoints and disarming American citizens. Is this what the right warns everyone about? pic.twitter.com/e4SyDemPtB
— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) September 4, 2025
Thomas Massie says he stands with the Epstein survivors against Ghislaine Maxwell getting moved to a low security prison pic.twitter.com/YpYC1KNaH1
— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) September 4, 2025
Thomas Massie predicts Trump may spend up to $20M trying to defeat him for his efforts to release the Epstein files.
Massie also dismissed a question about potentially getting Elon Musk’s support. pic.twitter.com/K1W5ENPzLx
— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) September 4, 2025
The real victims being the mole children harvested for adrenochrome in deep underground military bases, miles underground in tunnel networks spanning entire continents, and some even being cross-continental. https://t.co/uwsB0k7EwV
— Schrödinger's Internet Terrorist (@Robin_of_A) September 4, 2025
I got a little mention in this MSNBC story about how Trump's Department is mainstreaming white supremacist memes and slogans on social media.https://t.co/hsftnSCn9b
— Mike Rothschild (@rothschildmd on blu sky) (@rothschildmd) September 3, 2025
The self-proclaimed QAnon Queen of Canada, who has turned a former school into a compound with her followers, has been arrested on unclear charges. https://t.co/dlYMG866g4
— Will Sommer (@willsommer) September 3, 2025
Didulo posted a video of her and them inside being told to come out with their hands up as they have a warrant for their arrest. https://t.co/pMq6mcW1BF pic.twitter.com/PRR3NQO7Cw
— Dr. Christine Sarteschi, LCSW (@DrSarteschi) September 3, 2025
Looking for some background on the QAnon movement? We recommend Travis View’s excellent article at New York magazine as a place to start.
THE LOWDOWN is our blog for news, the QAnon phenomenon, and other subjects not related to our coverage of the Church of Scientology. If it’s our Scientology coverage you re looking for, please use this bookmark for our latest stories.
Posted by Tony Ortega on September 4, 2025 at 08:00
The shocking list of crimes Scientology thinks you committed on other planets
TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: Since we’re all 76 trillion years old in L. Ron Hubbard’s cosmology, the Scientology founder believed we’ve lived long enough to have committed every revolting crime possible. In 1961 he came up with an interrogation to find out which ones his followers would admit to. Strap in! [What is this Substack thing, anyway?]
——————–
Technology Cocktail
“Get the errors corrected correctly. Any misassessed lists, misrun Dianetic chains, code breaks — get it all cleaned up by an auditor who can read a meter and run and repair Dianetics flublessly. Don’t let any auditor who isn’t flubless on these points near an Int pc. With the errors truly and standardly handled and out of the way, if Int then continues to kick in, it’s not another Int RD or another Int Correction List, it’s the END OF ENDLESS INT REPAIR RUNDOWN you use. Run it to its EP and that will be the end of the trail of endless Int repair.” — L. Ron Hubbard, 1979
——————–
THE PROSECUTION OF DANNY MASTERSON
We first broke the news of the LAPD’s investigation of Scientology celebrity Danny Masterson on rape allegations in 2017, and we’ve been covering the story every step of the way since then. At this page we’ve collected our most important links as Danny faces a potential sentence of 45 years to life in prison. NOW WITH TRIAL INDEX.
——————–
THE PODCAST: How many have you heard?
[1] Marc Headley [2] Claire Headley [3] Jeffrey Augustine [4] Bruce Hines [5] Sunny Pereira [6] Pete Griffiths [7] Geoff Levin [8] Patty Moher [9] Marc Headley [10] Jefferson Hawkins [11] Michelle ‘Emma’ Ryan [12] Paulette Cooper [13] Jesse Prince [14] Mark Bunker [15] Jon Atack [16] Mirriam Francis [17] Bruce Hines on MSH
— SPECIAL: The best TV show on Scientology you never got to see
[1] Phil Jones [2] Derek Bloch [3] Carol Nyburg [4] Katrina Reyes [5] Jamie DeWolf
— The first Danny Masterson trial and beyond
Advertisement(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});[18] Trial special with Chris Shelton [19] Trial week one [20] Marc Headley on the spy in the hallway [21] Trial week two [22] Trial week three [23] Trial week four [24] Leah Remini on LAPD Corruption [25] Mike Rinder 2022 Thanksgiving Special [26] Jane Doe 4 (Tricia Vessey), Part One [27] Jane Doe 4 (Tricia Vessey), Part Two [28] Claire Headley on the trial [29] Tory Christman [30] Bruce Hines on spying [31] Karen de la Carriere [32] Ron Miscavige on Shelly Miscavige [33] Karen de la Carriere on the L’s [34] Mark Bunker on Miscavige hiding [35] Mark Plummer [36] Mark Ebner [37] Karen Pressley [38] Steve Cannane [39] Fredrick Brennan [40] Clarissa Adams [41] Louise Shekter [42] John Sweeney [43] Tory Christman [44] Kate Bornstein [45] Christian Stolte [46] Mark Bunker [47] Jon Atack [48] Luke Y. Thompson [49] Mark Ebner [50] Bruce Hines [51] Spanky Taylor and Karen Pressley [51] Geoff and Robbie Levin [52] Sands Hall [53] Jonny Jacobsen [54] Sandy Holeman [55] Mark Bunker [56] Trish and Liz Conley [57] Trish Conley [58] Alex Barnes-Ross [59] Alex Barnes-Ross [60] Alex Barnes-Ross [61] Alex Barnes-Ross [62] Alex Barnes-Ross [63] Alex Barnes-Ross [64] Tory Christman [65] Tammy Synovec [66] Dennis Erlich [67] Alex Barnes-Ross [68] Valerie Ross [69] Kat in Austin [70] Mark Bunker [71] Phil Jones
——————–
“I found out very early I could bully people into having sonic, visio, and everything else. I don’t know what I was doing. I guess I was handling their engrams for them and I guess cutting down their self determinism; maybe turning them back into GEs. I swear, I look back on it, I might occasionally have turned off a thetan, put him sound asleep and turned the GE full on and the fellow was happy as a clam thereafter.” — L. Ron Hubbard, September 4, 1952
——————–
“NOTICE: Diana and I are going for three weeks leave, Sunday, September 5th. CS-G Comm, Lt. Nikki Freedman will be handling my lines while I am away. Further, the Guardian Offices WW and US are fully on post and completely capable of handling any matters which may arise. In case of extreme emergency, these Offices will also be in communication with me. Therefore, if any matter arises which has to do with Guardian Office functions and duties, place these on CS-G Comm’s Lines and such will be handled via the appropriate Guardian Office. The word is: BUSINESS AS USUAL.” — Love, Mary Sue Hubbard, Capt. CS-G, September 4, 1971
——————–
“Just a note to say that I fully support the ban of Justin Craig’s pseudo-Scientology. LRH was quite clear in stating that after OT8 come actual OT levels, not more chasing of negative gain cosmologies. I suggested earlier that Craig could possibly be a BT from LRH’s left testicle.”
1998: Bob Minton reported harassment, pickets and letters from Scientology this week, with PIs following him in various cities. “Another letter to Therese arrived on Friday, again asking for a meeting so scientology could attempt to further divide Therese and me – perhaps even turn her into another Rosa Erlich. But Therese did not and will not bite that poison apple, Rinder. Today (Sunday) scientology picketed and passed out flyers in front of my former home on Beacon Hill in Boston to friends, neighbors, and parents of my children’s classmates, so that information about the break-up of their parents’ marriage – and who should be blamed for it – was there for all to see, even my 10- and 12-year-old daughters. As scientology has stalked Therese and the girls to Europe, followed the kids to a neighbor’s house and stalked me all over the US-it certainly was no surprise to scientology that Therese and the girls were in New Hampshire this morning. Scientology picketers showed up there for the little girls to see. My son Rob, who was mentioned on the Dateline show, seems to be working in some capacity for scientology – along with his mother – to discredit me in media circles. It is a concerted effort. Further, he is trying to help turn Therese against me – only to be told by Therese never to contact her again.”
——————–
“You should watch me play Jeopardy when I’m properly medicated.”
——————–
Full Court Press: What we’re watching at the Underground Bunker
Criminal prosecutions:
— Danny Masterson charged for raping three women: Found guilty on two counts on May 31, remanded to custody. Sentenced to 30 years to life on Sep 7, 2023. DA’s response to appeal brief due August 13.
— ‘Lafayette Ronald Hubbard’ (a/k/a Justin Craig), aggravated assault, plus drug charges: Grand jury indictments include charges from an assault while in custody. Next pretrial hearing December 1.
Civil litigation:
— Baxter, Baxter, and Paris v. Scientology, alleging labor trafficking: Forced to arbitration.
— Valerie Haney v. Scientology: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’
— Chrissie Bixler et al. v. Scientology and Danny Masterson. Judge Upindra Kalra’s ruling denying Scientology’s motion to strike is on appeal. Jane Does’ response to Scientology’s appeal brief submitted July 30. Scientology’s reply due October 20.
— Jane Doe 1 v. Scientology, David Miscavige, and Gavin Potter: Case unsealed and second amended complaint filed. Scientology moves for religious arbitration, gets ruling to depose Jane Doe 1. Trial has been set for January 10, 2028.
——————–
After the success of their double-Emmy-winning, three-season A&E series ‘Scientology and the Aftermath,’ Leah Remini and Mike Rinder continue the conversation on their podcast, ‘Scientology: Fair Game.’ We’ve created a landing page where you can hear all of the episodes so far.
LEAH REMINI: SCIENTOLOGY AND THE AFTERMATH
An episode-by-episode guide to Leah Remini’s three-season, double-Emmy winning series that changed everything for Scientology watching. Originally aired from 2016 to 2019 on the A&E network, and now on Netflix.
SCIENTOLOGY’S CELEBRITIES, from A to Z
Find your favorite Hubbardite celeb at this index page — or suggest someone to add to the list!
Other links: SCIENTOLOGY BLACK OPS: Tom Cruise and dirty tricks. Scientology’s Ideal Orgs, from one end of the planet to the other. Scientology’s sneaky front groups, spreading the good news about L. Ron Hubbard while pretending to benefit society. Scientology Lit: Books reviewed or excerpted in a weekly series. How many have you read?
——————–
THE WHOLE TRACK
[ONE year ago] Scientology’s sneaky front groups keep doing their thing — and some are succeeding
[TWO years ago] Hey, everybody, Scientology’s sneaky school front, Applied Scholastics, is hiring!
[THREE years ago] Judge in labor trafficking lawsuit refuses relief for ex-Scientology trio: Bad omen?
[FOUR years ago] Liz Gale: The Scientology auditing of kids at Mace-Kingsley was my childhood
[FIVE years ago] SCIENTOLOGY BLACK OPS: Episode 2 spiked by Aussie network, ‘Witness X,’ is leaked online
[SIX years ago] Scientology’s biggest donors of 2019, so far: The whales giving millions to Miscavige
[SEVEN years ago] Two years after Scientology rehabbed an Australian acoustics lab, the silence is deafening
[EIGHT years ago] Tomorrow on ‘Leah Remini’: You’re going to learn what it’s like on Scientology’s ‘Bridge’
[NINE years ago] Bryan Seymour reporting live from Scientology’s ‘Advanced Org’ opening in Sydney
[TEN years ago] Actress Erika Christensen in unearthed video meant only for her fellow Scientologists
[ELEVEN years ago] LIVE REPORTS FROM TAMPA: Scientology tests its religious freedom defense in fraud lawsuit
[TWELVE years ago] Our Man in Paris, Jonny Jacobsen, on the Scientology Appeal in France’s Highest Court
——————–
Bernie Headley (1952-2019) did not see his daughter Stephanie in his final 5,667 days.
Joe Reaiche (1958-2024) did not see his daughter Alanna Masterson in his final 6,999 days.
Mike Rinder (1955-2025) did not see his son Benjamin and daughter Taryn in his final 7,589 days.
Tammy Synovec has not seen her daughter Julia in 3,376 days.
Valerie Haney has not seen her mother Lynne in 3,880 days.
Katrina Reyes has not seen her mother Yelena in 4,386 days
Sylvia Wagner DeWall has not seen her brother Randy in 3,936 days.
Brian Sheen has not seen his grandson Leo in 2,926 days.
Klaus Büchele has not seen his daughter Jasmin in 5,312 days.
Geoff Levin has not seen his son Collin and daughter Savannah in 2,807 days.
Christie Collbran has not seen her mother Liz King in 6,111 days.
Marc Headley has not seen his mother Trudy in 4,762 days.
Clarissa Adams has not seen her parents Walter and Irmin Huber in 3,980 days.
Jamie Sorrentini Lugli has not seen her father Irving in 5,534 days.
Quailynn McDaniel has not seen her brother Sean in 4,875 days.
Dylan Gill has not seen his father Russell in 13,446 days.
Melissa Paris has not seen her father Jean-Francois in 9,362 days.
Valeska Paris has not seen her brother Raphael in 5,529 days.
Mirriam Francis has not seen her brother Ben in 5,111 days.
Claudio and Renata Lugli have not seen their son Flavio in 5,370 days.
Sara Goldberg has not seen her daughter Ashley in 4,407 days.
Lori Hodgson has not seen her son Jeremy and daughter Jessica in 4,123 days.
Marie Poulin has not seen her mother June in 3,687 days.
Julian Wain has not seen his brother Joseph or mother Susan in 2,002 days.
Charley Updegrove has not seen his son Toby in 3,177 days.
Derek Bloch has not seen his father Darren in 4,859 days.
Cindy Plahuta has not seen her daughter Kara in 5,196 days.
Roger Weller has not seen his daughter Alyssa in 10,049 days.
Claire Headley has not seen her mother Gen in 5,165 days.
Ramana Dienes-Browning has not seen her mother Jancis in 3,527 days.
Brian Sheen has not seen his daughter Spring in 3,938 days.
Skip Young has not seen his daughters Megan and Alexis in 4,326 days.
Mary Kahn has not seen her son Sammy in 4,210 days.
Lois Reisdorf has not seen her son Craig in 3,775 days.
Phil and Willie Jones have not seen their son Mike and daughter Emily in 4,286 days.
Mary Jane Barry has not seen her daughter Samantha in 4,546 days.
Kate Bornstein has not seen her daughter Jessica in 15,650 days.
——————–
Posted by Tony Ortega on September 4, 2025 at 07:00
E-mail tips to tonyo94 AT gmail DOT com or follow us on Twitter. We also post updates at our Facebook author page. After every new story we send out an alert to our e-mail list and our FB page.
Our new book with Paulette Cooper, Battlefield Scientology: Exposing L. Ron Hubbard’s dangerous ‘religion’ is now on sale at Amazon in paperback and Kindle formats. Our book about Paulette, The Unbreakable Miss Lovely: How the Church of Scientology tried to destroy Paulette Cooper, is on sale at Amazon in paperback, Kindle, and audiobook versions. We’ve posted photographs of Paulette and scenes from her life at a separate location. Reader Sookie put together a complete index. More information can also be found at the book’s dedicated page.
The Best of the Underground Bunker, 1995-2023 Just starting out here? We’ve picked out the most important stories we’ve covered here at the Underground Bunker (2012-2023), The Village Voice (2008-2012), New Times Los Angeles (1999-2002) and the Phoenix New Times (1995-1999)
Other links: BLOGGING DIANETICS: Reading Scientology’s founding text cover to cover | UP THE BRIDGE: Claire Headley and Bruce Hines train us as Scientologists | GETTING OUR ETHICS IN: Jefferson Hawkins explains Scientology’s system of justice | SCIENTOLOGY MYTHBUSTING: Historian Jon Atack discusses key Scientology concepts | Shelly Miscavige, 15 years gone | The Lisa McPherson story told in real time | The Cathriona White stories | The Leah Remini ‘Knowledge Reports’ | Hear audio of a Scientology excommunication | Scientology’s little day care of horrors | Whatever happened to Steve Fishman? | Felony charges for Scientology’s drug rehab scam | Why Scientology digs bomb-proof vaults in the desert | PZ Myers reads L. Ron Hubbard’s “A History of Man” | Scientology’s Master Spies | The mystery of the richest Scientologist and his wayward sons | Scientology’s shocking mistreatment of the mentally ill | The Underground Bunker’s Official Theme Song | The Underground Bunker FAQ
Watch our short videos that explain Scientology’s controversies in three minutes or less…
Check your whale level at our dedicated page for status updates, or join us at the Underground Bunker’s Facebook discussion group for more frivolity.
Our non-Scientology stories: Robert Burnham Jr., the man who inscribed the universe | Notorious alt-right inspiration Kevin MacDonald and his theories about Jewish DNA | The selling of the “Phoenix Lights” | Astronomer Harlow Shapley‘s FBI file | Sex, spies, and local TV news | Battling Babe-Hounds: Ross Jeffries v. R. Don Steele
Tony Ortega at The Daily Beast
September 3, 2025
Scientology tells members ‘Save The Date’ for IAS event — but not *which* date
TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: The coming showdown between Scientology and local UK government is really getting entertaining. The latest escalation by the church over a big coming event is a music video telling members to save the date — but they’re still keeping the date a secret even to their own members! [What is this Substack thing, anyway?]
——————–
Technology Cocktail
“The way to determine whether Int is out is normally by assessment of the C/S 53 buttons, and it is on this prepared list that out-Int is most often detected. You don’t flatten the button, or try to handle the button that was found on the C/S 53. This is the one exception on the C/S 53 whereby you do not just F/N it on the C/S 53 and go on. We have to examine the condition of the person on the subject of Int as above, to determine which way to go. Therefore you stop right there with a C/S 53, being careful to verify the fact that you actually have a read on Int, and not a false read or protest read. (And remember that some pcs, especially when Int has been run or repaired when it wasn’t charged, can get so protesty on the subject that Int will now give a false read whenever it is mentioned due to protest. An auditor’s TRs, metering and obnosis of the pc and whether the pc is in session or not have to be bad for this to occur, or for the auditor to now fail to determine whether it is a valid or false read on Int.) Having determined that you do have a valid read on Int, you would not proceed with the C/S 53, but end off the session.” — L. Ron Hubbard, 1979
——————–
THE PROSECUTION OF DANNY MASTERSON
We first broke the news of the LAPD’s investigation of Scientology celebrity Danny Masterson on rape allegations in 2017, and we’ve been covering the story every step of the way since then. At this page we’ve collected our most important links as Danny faces a potential sentence of 45 years to life in prison. NOW WITH TRIAL INDEX.
——————–
THE PODCAST: How many have you heard?
[1] Marc Headley [2] Claire Headley [3] Jeffrey Augustine [4] Bruce Hines [5] Sunny Pereira [6] Pete Griffiths [7] Geoff Levin [8] Patty Moher [9] Marc Headley [10] Jefferson Hawkins [11] Michelle ‘Emma’ Ryan [12] Paulette Cooper [13] Jesse Prince [14] Mark Bunker [15] Jon Atack [16] Mirriam Francis [17] Bruce Hines on MSH
— SPECIAL: The best TV show on Scientology you never got to see
[1] Phil Jones [2] Derek Bloch [3] Carol Nyburg [4] Katrina Reyes [5] Jamie DeWolf
— The first Danny Masterson trial and beyond
Advertisement(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});[18] Trial special with Chris Shelton [19] Trial week one [20] Marc Headley on the spy in the hallway [21] Trial week two [22] Trial week three [23] Trial week four [24] Leah Remini on LAPD Corruption [25] Mike Rinder 2022 Thanksgiving Special [26] Jane Doe 4 (Tricia Vessey), Part One [27] Jane Doe 4 (Tricia Vessey), Part Two [28] Claire Headley on the trial [29] Tory Christman [30] Bruce Hines on spying [31] Karen de la Carriere [32] Ron Miscavige on Shelly Miscavige [33] Karen de la Carriere on the L’s [34] Mark Bunker on Miscavige hiding [35] Mark Plummer [36] Mark Ebner [37] Karen Pressley [38] Steve Cannane [39] Fredrick Brennan [40] Clarissa Adams [41] Louise Shekter [42] John Sweeney [43] Tory Christman [44] Kate Bornstein [45] Christian Stolte [46] Mark Bunker [47] Jon Atack [48] Luke Y. Thompson [49] Mark Ebner [50] Bruce Hines [51] Spanky Taylor and Karen Pressley [51] Geoff and Robbie Levin [52] Sands Hall [53] Jonny Jacobsen [54] Sandy Holeman [55] Mark Bunker [56] Trish and Liz Conley [57] Trish Conley [58] Alex Barnes-Ross [59] Alex Barnes-Ross [60] Alex Barnes-Ross [61] Alex Barnes-Ross [62] Alex Barnes-Ross [63] Alex Barnes-Ross [64] Tory Christman [65] Tammy Synovec [66] Dennis Erlich [67] Alex Barnes-Ross [68] Valerie Ross [69] Kat in Austin [70] Mark Bunker [71] Phil Jones
——————–
“There are actually hundreds of prison systems. And yet they have hung themselves with the one which they found was the least rehabilitative, the least workable and produced the most crime….I’m not even standing up for another system. Frankly, if you just erected a big stockade someplace or another and told the fellows to go in there for a while, and we didn’t care who they took with us, we’d probably, you know, have a better system. If the Scientologist were to go about this — I already figured this out for the federal prisons of the United States. The head of all federal prisons in the United States has required Dianetics to be read, by the way, by all his wardens. And I worked out a system for him. Too much work for me to put into effect and so never went into effect. We are not without friends or connections or influence, in spite of the fact that some two-bit-some drug addicts, the Federal Drug Addicts, are after us, because they’re actually not under the government, they’re under the AMA.” — L. Ron Hubbard, September 3, 1963
——————–
“COMMEND: The Qual Div and Quentin as Auditor and R. Lindsell are commended for the work on an Aides Auditing Project. This project series was very well done and entirely flubless as is usual with Quentin’s auditing. Liese and Tommy both did one each of the project and these were also very well done. Qual is very upstat.” — The Commodore, September 3, 1970
——————–
“There are people who are more ‘hatted’ than me. However, I do not see them having as much Purpose as I have. Secondly, they are not LRH so they do not know neither apply Scientology 100 percent. Still, if anything moves they are the first to USE POLICY TO STOP. They cannot even see that all those years all they should be doing is Hat, Hat, Hat… But no, they know better. Those who postulated 100 percent policy are still postulating and DO less than they could. A team with any policy is better than a team with NO policy even if it’s the ALL STARS playing. You know that. Or if you don’t know read Org Board and Livingness.”
1997: Robert Vaughn Young has been posting memoirs of his time spent in Scientology. Excerpts from his latest chapter: “The ability to throw and give a press conference was usually the last part of the training that we gave to Scientology PRs and the final drilling for it was what was called ‘Reporter TRs.’ The ‘TR’ acronym stood for ‘training routine’ or ‘training regimen’ and came from drills or exercises Hubbard had designed for auditors. When the acronym was applied to ‘Reporter TRs,’ it was a series of drills that a PR did to learn how to answer questions and to take control of the conversation and, if need be, to cave a person in. The drill consisted of a PR and a coach. Coach: Okay, start. So tell me, what is scientology? Student: Scientology’s a way of thinking that… Coach: Flunk. Wrong answer. Here, read this. (Coach hands student PR the sheet with the approved replies.) Student: Got it. Coach: Good. Start. So I’m supposed to ask you, what is scientology? Student: Scientology is an applied religious philosophy. Coach: Who dreamed it up? Student: L. Ron Hubbard. Coach: Flunk. You didn’t correct my use of the word ‘dreamed up’ and it might appear in the story. Start. So who dreamed it up? Student: If you mean who discovered the laws of Scientology, it was L. Ron Hubbard, an American writer and philosopher. Coach: Wasn’t he a science fiction writer? Student: Yes, he… Coach: Flunk. Too quick on the admission. Start. Wasn’t he a science fiction writer? Student: Mr. Hubbard was one of America’s most prolific writers, writing millions of words in many fields and futuristic fiction was only one of many. The last Reporter TRs’ drill was what was called ‘verbal karate.’ This is where the ‘reporter’ is arguing and the student PR has to cut him down, take control, wipe him out and dominate. The PR is told he is free to scream, curse, pound the table, do anything he wants to take command and control. When we wanted to really put the PR through the wringer, we’d pit two people against him/her and let ‘er rip! That was why it was called ‘verbal karate.’ The idea was not that one should approach all reporters that way, although we did get some who misunderstood when to do it, but that the PR was able to do it. But then no one had ever drilled holding a press conference on the day one is being raided by the FBI. It would take me years to look back and fully realize why Artie had declined to hold the press conference himself. After all, he was the head of Public Relations for the Church of Scientology and had been so identified in the media. Instead, he gave it to me. But in a few hours, I would start to learn the real reason Artie did not want to do it: he knew too much. Instead, I was about to be sacrificed to the Los Angeles Press Corps and Reporter TRs wouldn’t save me.”
——————–
“Owls get spontaneous spasmodic upvotes from me, always.”
——————–
Full Court Press: What we’re watching at the Underground Bunker
Criminal prosecutions:
— Danny Masterson charged for raping three women: Found guilty on two counts on May 31, remanded to custody. Sentenced to 30 years to life on Sep 7, 2023. DA’s response to appeal brief due August 13.
— ‘Lafayette Ronald Hubbard’ (a/k/a Justin Craig), aggravated assault, plus drug charges: Grand jury indictments include charges from an assault while in custody. Next pretrial hearing December 1.
Civil litigation:
— Baxter, Baxter, and Paris v. Scientology, alleging labor trafficking: Forced to arbitration.
— Valerie Haney v. Scientology: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’
— Chrissie Bixler et al. v. Scientology and Danny Masterson. Judge Upindra Kalra’s ruling denying Scientology’s motion to strike is on appeal. Jane Does’ response to Scientology’s appeal brief submitted July 30. Scientology’s reply due October 20.
— Jane Doe 1 v. Scientology, David Miscavige, and Gavin Potter: Case unsealed and second amended complaint filed. Scientology moves for religious arbitration, gets ruling to depose Jane Doe 1. Trial has been set for January 10, 2028.
——————–
After the success of their double-Emmy-winning, three-season A&E series ‘Scientology and the Aftermath,’ Leah Remini and Mike Rinder continue the conversation on their podcast, ‘Scientology: Fair Game.’ We’ve created a landing page where you can hear all of the episodes so far.
LEAH REMINI: SCIENTOLOGY AND THE AFTERMATH
An episode-by-episode guide to Leah Remini’s three-season, double-Emmy winning series that changed everything for Scientology watching. Originally aired from 2016 to 2019 on the A&E network, and now on Netflix.
SCIENTOLOGY’S CELEBRITIES, from A to Z
Find your favorite Hubbardite celeb at this index page — or suggest someone to add to the list!
Other links: SCIENTOLOGY BLACK OPS: Tom Cruise and dirty tricks. Scientology’s Ideal Orgs, from one end of the planet to the other. Scientology’s sneaky front groups, spreading the good news about L. Ron Hubbard while pretending to benefit society. Scientology Lit: Books reviewed or excerpted in a weekly series. How many have you read?
——————–
THE WHOLE TRACK
[ONE year ago] Scientology’s founder in King Arthur’s Court: When Ron ran for the hills!
[TWO years ago] RIFFER MADNESS: Scientology’s David Miscavige says he’s not been served Jane Doe 1 lawsuit
[FOUR years ago] VIDEO: Scientology prepares Chicago takeover, will target college student dorms downtown
[FIVE years ago] After arrest, Scientologist chiro Dennis Nobbe in even more trouble for contacting witnesses
[SIX years ago] The donors keeping Scientology afloat in 2019: Today, part one, the lesser whales
[SEVEN years ago] Scientology rehabs are hiring — if you don’t care about money or a decent place to live
[EIGHT years ago] Scientology’s slick (and bogus) drug education program snares another school district
[NINE years ago] Dan Koon, co-writer of Scientology tell-all ‘Ruthless,’ on his days with L. Ron Hubbard
[TEN years ago] It’s a video extravaganza as three former members tell us about life inside Scientology
[ELEVEN years ago] Sea Org Document: Dare to have children, you get sent to Scientology’s version of Siberia
[TWELVE years ago] Making the Grade: Scientology Prepares Us for the Future
——————–
Bernie Headley (1952-2019) did not see his daughter Stephanie in his final 5,667 days.
Joe Reaiche (1958-2024) did not see his daughter Alanna Masterson in his final 6,999 days.
Mike Rinder (1955-2025) did not see his son Benjamin and daughter Taryn in his final 7,589 days.
Tammy Synovec has not seen her daughter Julia in 3,375 days.
Valerie Haney has not seen her mother Lynne in 3,879 days.
Katrina Reyes has not seen her mother Yelena in 4,385 days
Sylvia Wagner DeWall has not seen her brother Randy in 3,935 days.
Brian Sheen has not seen his grandson Leo in 2,925 days.
Klaus Büchele has not seen his daughter Jasmin in 5,311 days.
Geoff Levin has not seen his son Collin and daughter Savannah in 2,806 days.
Christie Collbran has not seen her mother Liz King in 6,110 days.
Marc Headley has not seen his mother Trudy in 4,761 days.
Clarissa Adams has not seen her parents Walter and Irmin Huber in 3,979 days.
Jamie Sorrentini Lugli has not seen her father Irving in 5,533 days.
Quailynn McDaniel has not seen her brother Sean in 4,874 days.
Dylan Gill has not seen his father Russell in 13,445 days.
Melissa Paris has not seen her father Jean-Francois in 9,361 days.
Valeska Paris has not seen her brother Raphael in 5,528 days.
Mirriam Francis has not seen her brother Ben in 5,110 days.
Claudio and Renata Lugli have not seen their son Flavio in 5,369 days.
Sara Goldberg has not seen her daughter Ashley in 4,406 days.
Lori Hodgson has not seen her son Jeremy and daughter Jessica in 4,122 days.
Marie Poulin has not seen her mother June in 3,686 days.
Julian Wain has not seen his brother Joseph or mother Susan in 2,001 days.
Charley Updegrove has not seen his son Toby in 3,176 days.
Derek Bloch has not seen his father Darren in 4,858 days.
Cindy Plahuta has not seen her daughter Kara in 5,195 days.
Roger Weller has not seen his daughter Alyssa in 10,048 days.
Claire Headley has not seen her mother Gen in 5,164 days.
Ramana Dienes-Browning has not seen her mother Jancis in 3,526 days.
Brian Sheen has not seen his daughter Spring in 3,935 days.
Skip Young has not seen his daughters Megan and Alexis in 4,325 days.
Mary Kahn has not seen her son Sammy in 4,209 days.
Lois Reisdorf has not seen her son Craig in 3,774 days.
Phil and Willie Jones have not seen their son Mike and daughter Emily in 4,285 days.
Mary Jane Barry has not seen her daughter Samantha in 4,545 days.
Kate Bornstein has not seen her daughter Jessica in 15,649 days.
——————–
Posted by Tony Ortega on September 3, 2025 at 07:00
E-mail tips to tonyo94 AT gmail DOT com or follow us on Twitter. We also post updates at our Facebook author page. After every new story we send out an alert to our e-mail list and our FB page.
Our new book with Paulette Cooper, Battlefield Scientology: Exposing L. Ron Hubbard’s dangerous ‘religion’ is now on sale at Amazon in paperback and Kindle formats. Our book about Paulette, The Unbreakable Miss Lovely: How the Church of Scientology tried to destroy Paulette Cooper, is on sale at Amazon in paperback, Kindle, and audiobook versions. We’ve posted photographs of Paulette and scenes from her life at a separate location. Reader Sookie put together a complete index. More information can also be found at the book’s dedicated page.
The Best of the Underground Bunker, 1995-2023 Just starting out here? We’ve picked out the most important stories we’ve covered here at the Underground Bunker (2012-2023), The Village Voice (2008-2012), New Times Los Angeles (1999-2002) and the Phoenix New Times (1995-1999)
Other links: BLOGGING DIANETICS: Reading Scientology’s founding text cover to cover | UP THE BRIDGE: Claire Headley and Bruce Hines train us as Scientologists | GETTING OUR ETHICS IN: Jefferson Hawkins explains Scientology’s system of justice | SCIENTOLOGY MYTHBUSTING: Historian Jon Atack discusses key Scientology concepts | Shelly Miscavige, 15 years gone | The Lisa McPherson story told in real time | The Cathriona White stories | The Leah Remini ‘Knowledge Reports’ | Hear audio of a Scientology excommunication | Scientology’s little day care of horrors | Whatever happened to Steve Fishman? | Felony charges for Scientology’s drug rehab scam | Why Scientology digs bomb-proof vaults in the desert | PZ Myers reads L. Ron Hubbard’s “A History of Man” | Scientology’s Master Spies | The mystery of the richest Scientologist and his wayward sons | Scientology’s shocking mistreatment of the mentally ill | The Underground Bunker’s Official Theme Song | The Underground Bunker FAQ
Watch our short videos that explain Scientology’s controversies in three minutes or less…
Check your whale level at our dedicated page for status updates, or join us at the Underground Bunker’s Facebook discussion group for more frivolity.
Our non-Scientology stories: Robert Burnham Jr., the man who inscribed the universe | Notorious alt-right inspiration Kevin MacDonald and his theories about Jewish DNA | The selling of the “Phoenix Lights” | Astronomer Harlow Shapley‘s FBI file | Sex, spies, and local TV news | Battling Babe-Hounds: Ross Jeffries v. R. Don Steele
Tony Ortega at The Daily Beast
Here comes bogus Epstein release Phase Two: Congress Bugaloo!
Some links to Q-related items today
So the House Oversight Committee just released 33,295 pages of Jeffrey Epstein documents.
Nearly all of it was already public. The committee hasn't said what's new.
If I wanted to obscure new info about Epstein from the public while pretending to be transparent, this is exactly… https://t.co/tbSBudTNwN
— Jacob Shamsian ⚖️ (@JayShams) September 2, 2025
This GOP Oversight release of already public Epstein files—which is basically the binders faux-disclosure all over again—looks set to give at least some Republicans an excuse to avoid the discharge petition. https://t.co/uo6Gxu1OXl
— Will Sommer (@willsommer) September 3, 2025
Anna Paulina Luna wants MAGA to trust Pam Bondi pic.twitter.com/smAJaoB96L
— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) September 2, 2025
These aren’t the files we aren’t stupid https://t.co/QJ4r17LkhO
— Ben Meiselas (@meiselasb) September 3, 2025
Let him cook. https://t.co/PbxQJtp6cN
— Mike Rothschild (@rothschildmd on blu sky) (@rothschildmd) September 3, 2025
QAnon: Trump is the Peace President dismantling the Deep State War Machine
Also QAnon: Kill them all and let God sort them out. pic.twitter.com/h1rsz8WacG
— Poker and Politics (@PokerPolitics) September 3, 2025
Looking for some background on the QAnon movement? We recommend Travis View’s excellent article at New York magazine as a place to start.
THE LOWDOWN is our blog for news, the QAnon phenomenon, and other subjects not related to our coverage of the Church of Scientology. If it’s our Scientology coverage you re looking for, please use this bookmark for our latest stories.
Posted by Tony Ortega on September 3, 2025 at 08:00
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