Tony Ortega's Blog, page 49
March 16, 2025
Scientology leader met with Clearwater council members and now wants a vote
[David Miscavige wants the city to knuckle under]
TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: Mark Bunker tells us that Scientology leader David Miscavige secretly met with individual Clearwater city council members and now expects them to vote for something tomorrow night that Miscavige wants, and for nothing in return. What a doormat this town has become. [What is this Substack thing, anyway?]
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Technology Cocktail
Advertisement(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});“The quality of technology is to the degree it increases percentages of cures it obtains within the framework of the society in which it operates. 22 1/2% will change for the better or ‘get well’ on sugar pills. 33% will make it regardless of how the tech is applied. The percentages from these on up are determined by the formula. Early Dianetics with a raw book auditor run well over 50%. Then into Scientology shot the percentages up to 97%, 3% here being those heavily PTS and so on. Even these are being handled with standard tech eventually. These percentages are all inclusive of all possible tech errors because we do get the percentages finally. This then shows that Scientology technology, when applied by standard tech action, will give a fantastic percentage of successes to the auditor who does only standard tech actions.” — L. Ron Hubbard, 1968
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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
[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({});
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“I had a number of US Senators interested in this. As a matter of fact I had the senate dining room one day — I had lots of friends down there in those days, still would have if I went down and stuck my nose in. Every time I do, why they all say, ‘Hey, Ron! Where the hell have you been?’ you know. ‘What’s the matter, you mad at me?’ Something like that. I’d say, ‘Oh, I’ve been busy.’ And I had the senate dining room down there one noon, I remember, along about this period [in 1950]. And you could have heard a toothpick fall from one end of it to the other….I was telling them somebody had found the dynamic principle of existence and I was telling people what it was and so forth. And that place was jammed from one corner to the other with senators and so forth. The next thing you know the table outside of the perimeter of the table I was sitting at with three or four old senators and the table outside that went silent and the table outside that went silent and the table outside that went silent and the next thing you know there wasn’t anything happening in that dining room. The waiters were standing there, see. Darnedest thing you ever wanted to see, you know! And I said, ‘Gee!’ I said, ‘I’ve got a bear by the tail here, you know.’ That was actually before anything much had occurred. They had never heard of this book or anything.” — L. Ron Hubbard, March 16, 1965
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“The Apollo is to be in all respects ready for the sea and all port cycles closed by 5:00 PM 18 Mar 69. The civil ‘Nomarch’ of Corfu on irregular lines verbally has ordered our departure in 24 hours despite any unreadiness and without concluding our gyro or safety inspection. We have been given no reason. There may be a connection with the visit of US vessels last week which had a report via their naval attache that we made troops desert. There is no damage really as the AOSH Greece had not really opened and is being reopened at once in Denmark. The situation is under control. There is no danger.” — The Commodore, March 16, 1969
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“According to Capt. Bill Robertson, Planet Earth is in the process of being introduced again to the intergalactic community. In order to do that a World Government is needed. The model for the New Civilization and World Government planned for this planet (according to Hubbard and Bill Robertson) is the old Galactic Confederacy of which Earth was a part. Hubbard gave the name of the planets in that old Galactic Confederacy in his movie script ‘Revolt in the Stars.’ Galactic Confederation member stars: Sirius, Canopus, Alpha Centauri, Vega, Capella, Arcturus, Rigel, Procyon, Achernar, Beta Centauri, Altair, Betelgeuse, Acrux, Aldebaran, Pollux, Spica, Antares, Fomalhaut, Deneb, Regulus, and Sol.”
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2002: The St. Petersburg Times reported that voters at the Scientology housing compound voted overwhelmingly for Frank Hibbard in the recent City Commission election. “Hibbard, a bank investment officer, unseated Hart by winning about 53 percent of the vote. Breaking it down, Hibbard received 610 more votes than Hart, according to the final results released Wednesday. Hibbard’s support was especially strong in suburban Countryside neighborhoods, which Hart won three years ago. But that was before Hart aggravated several well-known residents there who decided to stump doggedly for Hibbard. This time, Hibbard won roughly two thirds of the vote in Countryside, gaining 413 votes more than Hart’s total votes here. Hibbard’s strongest showing in any single precinct was in precinct 518, a Scientology stronghold where the church-owned Hacienda Gardens housing complex is located. Hibbard won 88 percent of the vote there, gaining 229 votes more than Hart’s tally. Three years ago, the precinct was a base of support for Hart. ‘I’m pleased at every vote we got regardless of where it was from,’ said Hibbard, a member of Calvary Baptist Church.”
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“Before today I considered Miscavige a cynical manipulating sociopath, and they’re a dime a dozen. Now he seems to be more the dangerously insane Idi Amin-style dictator. This doesn’t bode well for the future.”
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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 April 15.
— ‘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 March 31.
— David Gentile, GPB Capital, convicted of fraud, awaiting sentencing.
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 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.
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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] PODCAST: Phil Jones on the billboard, Scientology, and the Aftermath Foundation
[TWO years ago] Tommy Davis accosted her in the street. Now Deb Rennard has another fight on her hands.
[THREE years ago] Judge denies Valerie Haney do-over after Scientology’s appellate loss in Masterson suit
[FOUR years ago] Scientology goes after Mike Rinder with a document he gave only to Marty Rathbun
[FIVE years ago] To help us get through the pandemic, L. Ron Hubbard’s words of Scientology wisdom
[SIX years ago] Miss America organization says it’s looking into Scientology’s use of Miss New York
[SEVEN years ago] Hey, IRS: You might want to look at this new photo Scientology posted of David Miscavige
[EIGHT years ago] Understanding Marty Rathbun: For the first time, his full deposition of 2014
[NINE years ago] Ron Miscavige book out in May: ‘Ruthless: Scientology, My Son David Miscavige, and Me’
[TEN years ago] Mareka Brousseau on the degradations of Scientology’s Sea Org life
[ELEVEN years ago] With Scientology’s ‘disconnection’ policy finally hitting the mainstream, here’s more to consider
[TWELVE years ago] Xenu the The Movie Star! When Scientology Almost Revealed Its Secrets on the Big Screen
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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 3,205 days.
Valerie Haney has not seen her mother Lynne in 3,700 days.
Katrina Reyes has not seen her mother Yelena in 4,215 days
Sylvia Wagner DeWall has not seen her brother Randy in 3,765 days.
Brian Sheen has not seen his grandson Leo in 2,755 days.
Klaus Büchele has not seen his daughter Jasmin in 5,141 days.
Geoff Levin has not seen his son Collin and daughter Savannah in 2,636 days.
Christie Collbran has not seen her mother Liz King in 5,940 days.
Clarissa Adams has not seen her parents Walter and Irmin Huber in 3,811 days.
Jamie Sorrentini Lugli has not seen her father Irving in 5,363 days.
Quailynn McDaniel has not seen her brother Sean in 4,704 days.
Dylan Gill has not seen his father Russell in 13,271 days.
Melissa Paris has not seen her father Jean-Francois in 9,190 days.
Valeska Paris has not seen her brother Raphael in 5,358 days.
Mirriam Francis has not seen her brother Ben in 4,940 days.
Claudio and Renata Lugli have not seen their son Flavio in 5,199 days.
Sara Goldberg has not seen her daughter Ashley in 4,236 days.
Lori Hodgson has not seen her son Jeremy and daughter Jessica in 3,952 days.
Marie Bilheimer has not seen her mother June in 3,516 days.
Julian Wain has not seen his brother Joseph or mother Susan in 1,831 days.
Charley Updegrove has not seen his son Toby in 3,006 days.
Derek Bloch has not seen his father Darren in 4,688 days.
Cindy Plahuta has not seen her daughter Kara in 5,025 days.
Roger Weller has not seen his daughter Alyssa in 9,879 days.
Claire Headley has not seen her mother Gen in 4,994 days.
Ramana Dienes-Browning has not seen her mother Jancis in 3,356 days.
Brian Sheen has not seen his daughter Spring in 3,765 days.
Skip Young has not seen his daughters Megan and Alexis in 4,163 days.
Mary Kahn has not seen her son Sammy in 4,039 days.
Lois Reisdorf has not seen her son Craig in 3,604 days.
Phil and Willie Jones have not seen their son Mike and daughter Emily in 4,115 days.
Mary Jane Barry has not seen her daughter Samantha in 4,371 days.
Kate Bornstein has not seen her daughter Jessica in 15,479 days.
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Posted by Tony Ortega on March 16, 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 golfs at Mar-a-Lago while the libturds weep: Winning!
Some links to Q-related items today
Advertisement(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});Wow. Voters are upset with Republican Mike Lawler. https://t.co/U4QnLQD8Gh
— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) March 15, 2025
DOGE is defunding food banks. https://t.co/gs0ouypnii
— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) March 15, 2025
Forget the Magic Bullet, we now got the Magic Microphone. pic.twitter.com/Hf2GuR88jH
— Poker and Politics (@PokerPolitics) March 15, 2025
NEW: retired General Michael Flynn, who’s built a public profile around election denial and conspiracy theories, attended Trump’s Justice Dept speech and posed for a photo with FBI director Kash Patel https://t.co/jaSSGgYP4l
— Anna Merlan (@annamerlan)
Trump wearing a MAGA that he signed for himself pic.twitter.com/iKPZbAgpzF
— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) March 16, 2025
A giant, pink Birkin bag on display at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago home pic.twitter.com/SMAQEqr1qS
— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) March 16, 2025
Apparently, some Trump supporters are supposed to be called “Trumplings.” pic.twitter.com/mnpRaV5X6K
— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) March 15, 2025
Did DOGE cut veterans healthcare to pay for artwork like this? pic.twitter.com/EiZXkAvPdi
— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) March 15, 2025
Trump roaming Mar-a-Lago with a Diet Coke as the egg shortage continues pic.twitter.com/0QPJKkbFk5
— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) March 15, 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 March 16, 2025 at 08:00
March 15, 2025
Site report: Scientology not looking very ‘Ideal’ these days
TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: Scientology spent more than $15 million for a huge office building as it plans to go ‘Ideal’ on Long Island. It’s a sign that the church is booming there, right? Well, what happens if you actually drop by to see the current state of Hubbardism in Bethpage? Yikes, it’s grim! [What is this Substack thing, anyway?]
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Technology Cocktail
Advertisement(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});“When the needle on an E-Meter read in the response to an auditor’s question, all you know is that the needle on the E-Meter read. That’s all you know. Now in the next few seconds you will prove out, as to whether the read was to the question or to something else like a protest. To assume anything else in regard to meter reads is an arbitrary and will close up that pc with a bang. That’s the data. Knock off all the arbitraries NOW. Punch in hard standard tech. Standard tech is that tech which has absolutely no arbitraries.” — L. Ron Hubbard, 1968
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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.
——————–
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({});
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“I said, ‘Go ahead and fly through the air,’ to a preclear once in a very careless moment. Preclear had said something about flying all to pieces, or going up in the air, and I said, ‘Well, go ahead and fly through the air.’ It was a bad thing for me to do, because I was disgusted. I was disgusted with the preclear, and I actually mirrored it. And the preclear took it as an auditing command and looked at me blankly and said, ‘How am I supposed to do that?’ Well, I could have said at that moment, ‘It’s a mis-command. I didn’t mean it.’ But I didn’t. I picked the preclear up and made him fly through the air. And I said, ‘See, you can do it.’” — L. Ron Hubbard, March 15, 1957
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“SLIDE-TAPE SHOW: Geoff Barnes and Al Bornstein are highly commended for their excellent slide-tape show about Flag. As you read this it has already been exported to the various continents, having left the ship at 0600.” — The Commodore, March 15, 1971
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“In this Universe, spiritual survival and physical survival are polarized against each other. One tends to exclude the other. For that reason, trying to be an auditor and/or spiritual worker and make much money at the same time tends to be so difficult or unachievable. Spiritual workers have great dignity and are worthy of all the admiration, but they should know they need to keep a separate income. Understanding this is crucial for the immediate peace and future survival of auditing practices and other spiritual help activities.”
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2001: Internet news site slashdot.org was forced to remove a copy of the OT 3 materials from its web site following legal threats from Scientology. From “Commander Taco,” one of slashdot’s officials. “Last Saturday a comment was posted here by an anonymous reader that contained text that was copyrighted by the Church of Scientology. They have since followed the DMCA and demanded that we remove the comment. Our lawyers have advised us that, considering all the details of this case, the comment should come down. It’s a bad precedent, and a blow for the freedom of speech that we all share in this forum. We risk legal action that would at best be expensive, and potentially cause Slashdot to go down temporarily or even permanently. A text called ‘OT III’, part of what is known as the Fishman Affidavit. In its place we are putting non-copyrighted text: Links to websites about the church of Scientology, as well as links to how you can contact your congressman about the DMCA. Try a Google search on ‘OT III’ and ‘Fishman’ returns over 250 pages. A broader search on AltaVista returns over 2,000 webpages.”
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“I (and my parents) got my high school teacher fired for trying to use EST to teach us algebra. This was after he threw me out of the class for pointing out to him that EST was a cult and what he was doing was illegal and against school policy. This was like ’73 or ’74.”
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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 April 15.
— ‘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 March 31.
— David Gentile, GPB Capital, convicted of fraud, awaiting sentencing.
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 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.
——————–
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] Aftermath Foundation billboard pulled down, and ClearChannel isn’t saying why
[TWO years ago] Scientology leader David Miscavige doing business in Florida: The evidence
[THREE years ago] Is Scientology so desperate for new suckers, it would hand out snacks on Sunset Blvd?
[FOUR years ago] Scientology whistleblower Steve Fishman: Out of prison and getting younger every day
[FIVE years ago] Report: Scientology cancels LRH Birthday, but still spreads quackery about coronavirus
[SIX years ago] Tom Cruise, John Travolta and some other rare celebs made Scientology event in Florida
[SEVEN years ago] What do you want to see in Leah Remini’s third season of ‘Scientology and the Aftermath’?
[EIGHT years ago] Sheriff’s deputy on what Scientology does behind its gates: “That’s not my business”
[NINE years ago] Scientology disconnection rips apart another family, this time affecting a familiar face
[TEN years ago] ‘Going Clear’ subject Tom DeVocht gets a lesson in Scientology’s social media surveillance
[ELEVEN years ago] Ryan Hamilton files two new suits against Scientology’s drug rehab network — in California
[TWELVE years ago] VIDEO: What Did You Lose in Scientology?
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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 3,204 days.
Valerie Haney has not seen her mother Lynne in 3,699 days.
Katrina Reyes has not seen her mother Yelena in 4,214 days
Sylvia Wagner DeWall has not seen her brother Randy in 3,764 days.
Brian Sheen has not seen his grandson Leo in 2,754 days.
Klaus Büchele has not seen his daughter Jasmin in 5,140 days.
Geoff Levin has not seen his son Collin and daughter Savannah in 2,635 days.
Christie Collbran has not seen her mother Liz King in 5,939 days.
Clarissa Adams has not seen her parents Walter and Irmin Huber in 3,810 days.
Jamie Sorrentini Lugli has not seen her father Irving in 5,362 days.
Quailynn McDaniel has not seen her brother Sean in 4,703 days.
Dylan Gill has not seen his father Russell in 13,270 days.
Melissa Paris has not seen her father Jean-Francois in 9,189 days.
Valeska Paris has not seen her brother Raphael in 5,357 days.
Mirriam Francis has not seen her brother Ben in 4,939 days.
Claudio and Renata Lugli have not seen their son Flavio in 5,198 days.
Sara Goldberg has not seen her daughter Ashley in 4,235 days.
Lori Hodgson has not seen her son Jeremy and daughter Jessica in 3,951 days.
Marie Bilheimer has not seen her mother June in 3,515 days.
Julian Wain has not seen his brother Joseph or mother Susan in 1,830 days.
Charley Updegrove has not seen his son Toby in 3,005 days.
Derek Bloch has not seen his father Darren in 4,687 days.
Cindy Plahuta has not seen her daughter Kara in 5,024 days.
Roger Weller has not seen his daughter Alyssa in 9,878 days.
Claire Headley has not seen her mother Gen in 4,993 days.
Ramana Dienes-Browning has not seen her mother Jancis in 3,355 days.
Brian Sheen has not seen his daughter Spring in 3,764 days.
Skip Young has not seen his daughters Megan and Alexis in 4,162 days.
Mary Kahn has not seen her son Sammy in 4,038 days.
Lois Reisdorf has not seen her son Craig in 3,603 days.
Phil and Willie Jones have not seen their son Mike and daughter Emily in 4,114 days.
Mary Jane Barry has not seen her daughter Samantha in 4,370 days.
Kate Bornstein has not seen her daughter Jessica in 15,478 days.
——————–
Posted by Tony Ortega on March 15, 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
The White House has a simple way to deal with libturd whining
Some links to Q-related items today
Advertisement(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});5 things Trump did this week
1. Tanked the stock market some more
2. Hosted a Tesla sales event at the White House
3. Said CNN and MSNBC are illegal
4. Got hit with a microphone
5. Went to Florida to play more golf pic.twitter.com/BMfNHcYHdG
— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) March 15, 2025
Dictator talk https://t.co/WOfQudUz9p
— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) March 14, 2025
Tesla salesman Ted Cruz pic.twitter.com/wWX9MUQAJ2
— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) March 14, 2025
MAGA: “Release the Epstein files.”
Pam Bondi: “Best I can do is a pile of fake fentanyl.” https://t.co/L9VB9F8I1I
— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) March 14, 2025
NEW: Tulsi Gabbard tried to appoint a rightwing podcaster who regularly promotes pro-Putin commentators to one of the most important jobs in the US intelligence community. She's a problem. https://t.co/749BroPM59
— David Corn (@DavidCornDC) March 14, 2025
This excuse-making rap is instantly familiar if you've studied cults like QAnon and NESARA.
The Great Thing happening on "Day One" becomes "a few more days," which becomes "a couple more weeks," which becomes "definitely by September."
Excuses to keep the followers engaged. https://t.co/in53pxDn8w
— Mike Rothschild (@rothschildmd on blu sky) (@rothschildmd) March 14, 2025
New from me, that I cast onto this bad website https://t.co/FenkvqomWN
— Anna Merlan (@annamerlan)
Trump getting flipped off as he visited the DOJ today pic.twitter.com/oVNsur6m2b
— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) March 15, 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 March 15, 2025 at 08:00
March 14, 2025
Claire Headley on the cruelty of the Scientology ‘declare’ checklist
TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: We got a big reaction to posting an actual checklist for creating a ‘suppressive person declare,’ which Scientology uses to name and shame an enemy of the church. Claire Headley had us on her channel to discuss the checklist and how it related to her own SP declare. Fun! [What is this Substack thing, anyway?]
——————–
Technology Cocktail
“A student must not discuss any examination with anyone outside the Qualifications Division. To give examination information to other students in order to assist them shows a misguided understanding of help. A student should pass an examination on the basis that he does know and can apply the data, not on the basis that he knows and can pass the examination. Only by being able to know and apply the data can a student be an accomplished auditor at any level. Therefore, students are not to discuss examinations with other students for whatever reason.” — L. Ron Hubbard, 1966
——————–
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
——————–
“It was a lovely party. A smashing cake, a lovely present, the Snipes songs and all your happy smiles and applause made it a truly wonderful birthday. (I didn’t know how old I was this life, was sure I was several years younger, until the congratulations and best wishes. I added it up. 60. I still don’t believe it. Are you sure we haven’t skipped some calendar years somewhere?) It was a great day. And I appreciate you more than you will ever know.” — L. Ron Hubbard, March 14, 1971
——————–
“HIGHEST EVERS: Thank you for the very happy birthday. I received some lovely presents including a new dining room table and chairs for the A Deck lounge — truly gorgeous. I now hear the Ship’s Rep flew to a nearby area to get some lovely presents for me from MSH. Very appreciated. Both the presents and the flight. Cards, telexes, lovely presents and remembrances. And HGC had a present — 639 w.d. auditing hours! Just by changing its lines and hard work. And the HCI’s FEBC stats are highest ever. The International Gross Income was the HIGHEST EVER! And the Planetary G.I. (not including AOUK, UK, EU, AF or ANZO Orgs) (including only US (Sea Org, Scn) and AOSH DK) hit over a quarter of a million in one week!” — The Commodore, March 14, 1971
——————–
“I’ll be glad when these Grays are exterminated from our Galaxy. We need to apply the Danger Formulae to these S.P.s and secure a safe base. After the dust settles, we can arrange to have those in lower Ethics Conditions given the job of ‘auditing’ them. I, unfortunately, am very familiar with the Gray hatcheries. Most of these are in the Deep Underground Military Bases. They abduct women and children and use them for fertility foods. Most of these ‘hybrid’ babies are used as FOOD, for the Reptilians. The Grays rub their adrenal glands on their skin, as nourishment. And some of these babies are sacrificed to Lucifer, murdered, after being tortured for their adrenochrome. I have heard of some ‘Good Grays,’ mostly from people who allow them to inhabit their bodies during a trance-like state. I don’t buy that there are good Grays. Alliances were made with President Eisenhower, of which he was bound/forced to make a deal, in order to save the greater collective; all the while buying time to wage war against them and defend humanity. Eliminating total suppression must be done in order to save humanity. If you’re of the opinion that there are those that are sweetness and light, then maybe, but I haven’t seen any evidence of any goodness from either the Reptilians or Grays. There’s NO ‘Alliance’ with these baby ‘hatcheries.’ Our Military has been FORCED to have Reality with them, UNTIL they amass enough tech to eradicate them. And that is being done over the past year or so. Trump and the U.S. military has been rescuing these babies, children and others, then bombing the DUMBs.”
2000: De Morgen reported that a Belgian investigation has found indications of fraud in Scientology’s finances. “The controversial religious movement has also repeatedly violated the law on privacy. Scientology unlawfully keeps medical and personal information on its members on file. This information was confirmed by assistant district attorney Christophe Caliman of the financial section, who is coordinating the ongoing judicial investigation. The investigation was launched after a complaint in 1997 from an ex-member of Scientology, who had tried in vain to get a refund of 700,000 Belgian francs [approx. US$ 17,000], which she had paid for various courses. Last September searches were made at a total of 25 locations, by request of investigating judge Van Espen. Analysis of the huge amount of data is taking longer than expected due to a shortage of staff, and the investigation won’t be concluded for another year. There are already ‘very sound indications’ that Scientology committed tax fraud, amongst other means by writing phony invoices. Scientology companies sent each other invoices for services that were ‘more than likely’ never delivered. The bulk of the money was transferred to the American headquarters of the cult. The controversial movement kept files about its members that hadn’t been registered with the Commission for the Protection of Privacy, which is legally required. On top of that, there are indications of the unlawful practice of medicine.”
——————–
“Hey, if chronic drunkenness, drug addiction, and debauchery were good enough for L. Ron, they’re good enough for me!”
——————–
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 April 15.
— ‘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 March 31.
— David Gentile, GPB Capital, convicted of fraud, awaiting sentencing.
Civil litigation:
— Leah Remini v. Scientology, alleging ‘Fair Game’ harassment and defamation: Some defamation claims were removed by Judge Hammock. Judge Hammock’s ruling is on appeal.
— 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 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.
——————–
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] News report says Leah Remini’s Scientology suit ‘gutted’ — but the ruling says otherwise
[TWO years ago] Scientology got its arbitrators, but also wants $107K in sanctions from Valerie Haney
[THREE years ago] A drone’s eye view of Scientology’s mecca, including Tom Cruise’s penthouse
[FOUR years ago] Leah Remini spots Scientology’s best self-own in a long, long time
[FIVE years ago] Danny Masterson’s victims speak out in sworn documents in lawsuit against Scientology
[SIX years ago] David Miscavige presides over Scientology’s holiest annual celebration of L. Ron Hubbard
[SEVEN years ago] Lori Hodgson’s fight with Scientology for her kids is now a book you can pre-order
[EIGHT years ago] Memories of a Scientology warrior: Marty Rathbun’s curious career as church rebel
[NINE years ago] Turns out at least FOUR employees sued Pasadena firm that forced Scientology on them
[TEN years ago] Outtakes from the 1997 ‘Secret Lives’ doc — an eyewitness at the Jack Parsons house
[ELEVEN years ago] TEXAS JUDGE DENIES SCIENTOLOGY’S ‘ANTI-SLAPP’ MOTION IN RATHBUN SUIT
[TWELVE years ago] Your Life as Sperm or Egg: L. Ron Hubbard’s Mad Genius
——————–
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 3,203 days.
Valerie Haney has not seen her mother Lynne in 3,698 days.
Katrina Reyes has not seen her mother Yelena in 4,213 days
Sylvia Wagner DeWall has not seen her brother Randy in 3,763 days.
Brian Sheen has not seen his grandson Leo in 2,753 days.
Klaus Büchele has not seen his daughter Jasmin in 5,139 days.
Geoff Levin has not seen his son Collin and daughter Savannah in 2,634 days.
Christie Collbran has not seen her mother Liz King in 5,938 days.
Clarissa Adams has not seen her parents Walter and Irmin Huber in 3,809 days.
Jamie Sorrentini Lugli has not seen her father Irving in 5,361 days.
Quailynn McDaniel has not seen her brother Sean in 4,702 days.
Dylan Gill has not seen his father Russell in 13,269 days.
Melissa Paris has not seen her father Jean-Francois in 9,188 days.
Valeska Paris has not seen her brother Raphael in 5,356 days.
Mirriam Francis has not seen her brother Ben in 4,938 days.
Claudio and Renata Lugli have not seen their son Flavio in 5,197 days.
Sara Goldberg has not seen her daughter Ashley in 4,234 days.
Lori Hodgson has not seen her son Jeremy and daughter Jessica in 3,950 days.
Marie Bilheimer has not seen her mother June in 3,514 days.
Julian Wain has not seen his brother Joseph or mother Susan in 1,829 days.
Charley Updegrove has not seen his son Toby in 3,004 days.
Derek Bloch has not seen his father Darren in 4,686 days.
Cindy Plahuta has not seen her daughter Kara in 5,023 days.
Roger Weller has not seen his daughter Alyssa in 9,877 days.
Claire Headley has not seen her mother Gen in 4,992 days.
Ramana Dienes-Browning has not seen her mother Jancis in 3,354 days.
Brian Sheen has not seen his daughter Spring in 3,763 days.
Skip Young has not seen his daughters Megan and Alexis in 4,161 days.
Mary Kahn has not seen her son Sammy in 4,037 days.
Lois Reisdorf has not seen her son Craig in 3,602 days.
Phil and Willie Jones have not seen their son Mike and daughter Emily in 4,113 days.
Mary Jane Barry has not seen her daughter Samantha in 4,369 days.
Kate Bornstein has not seen her daughter Jessica in 15,477 days.
——————–
Posted by Tony Ortega on March 14, 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
Savings? Trump spending is actually more than Sleepy Joe, documents show
Some links to Q-related items today
Trump's first month in office showed federal spending of $603 billion in February — $36 billion higher than last February.https://t.co/cFBIwYlj8C
— Axios (@axios) March 13, 2025
Inside Elon Musk's Digital Coup
—this is the result of months of investigative journalism from WIRED incredible team of reporters and gives an unprecedented view inside Musk's effort to upend US democracyhttps://t.co/pdXnjRO8ks
— David Gilbert (@daithaigilbert) March 13, 2025
Trump forced the opening of a dam that was nowhere near Los Angeles, actively hurt local farmers, and had no role in putting out the fires that been contained a week earlier.
Other than that, yeah, big help. https://t.co/DslcOUShqJ
— Mike Rothschild (@rothschildmd on blu sky) (@rothschildmd) March 13, 2025
So Trump lied about the California water? Not surprised. https://t.co/FfqY759ASn
— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) March 14, 2025
NEW: The Trump administration is expected to invoke the Alien Enemies Act of 1798, a sweeping wartime authority, in the coming days, sources familiar w/ the move tell @priscialva @jmhansler & me
The move is designed to speed up the president’s mass deportation pledge
— Alayna Treene (@alaynatreene) March 13, 2025
New from me – Paul Ingrassia, a lawyer working as the White House Liaison to the Department of Homeland Security, presented himself as an attorney more than a year before he was admitted to the bar.https://t.co/Jc2lCHhmP0
— amanda moore 🐢 (@noturtlesoup17) March 13, 2025
Inside Erik Prince's growing influence and reach on one of Trump's signature issues: immigration. Story w/ @ZcohenCNN + @Phil_Mattingly: https://t.co/tOPbZdlIXe
— Priscilla Alvarez (@priscialva) March 13, 2025
NASA, Yale, and Stanford scientists are considering “scientific exile” by moving to Europe to continue their research in response to Donald Trump’s anti-science policies, according to a French university.
🔗 https://t.co/PZVTcmLhG5 pic.twitter.com/GxAWMApcGu
— 404 Media (@404mediaco) March 13, 2025
Some in the online right are spreading around a post from the far-right forum 4chan "/pol/" claiming that Trump's current tariff & economic policies are essentially part of a secret plot to "lower the cost of everything." pic.twitter.com/jVYce57Ik5
— Alex Kaplan (@AlKapDC) March 13, 2025
“It wasn’t Hitler who murdered millions of people, it was his unelected bureaucrats” says world’s most powerful unelected bureaucrat. pic.twitter.com/k2lVxv6joZ
— Oliver Alexander (@OAlexanderDK) March 13, 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 March 14, 2025 at 08:00
March 13, 2025
Ron turns 114: The Scientology founder’s original betrayal — his parents
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?]
——————–
Technology Cocktail
Advertisement(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});“A thetan’s first real mistake is to consider his own pictures and their recorded events important, and his second mistake is in not obliterating entrapment activities in such a way as not to become entrapped or aberrated in doing so, all of which can be done and should be. Engram running is a step necessary to get at the more fundamental causes of a time track and handle them. So it is a skill which must be done and done well.” — L. Ron Hubbard, 1978
——————–
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({});
——————–
“NEW DEVELOPMENTS: Quad Dianetics, Quad Power, Quad R6EW are all going like a bomb. Four Times the result! Opens the door to Quad Grades. Really gives a booster shot. It is the result of taking a discovery in upper level tech and applying it to the lower levels. OUR HGC: Our Flag Auditors are going truly great. The new line works very well. UPSTAT UNITS: The FB (excepting in Action which is in Danger due to necessary by-pass) is doing very well. Including Mimeo. The E/R FSO is great. The HU is doing well. HCI FAO is doing its job well. Qual FAO is picking up. Reg Dept FAO is doing Reg. Income Dept FAO is doing great. Ship’s Rep FSO is doing very well. Other divisions are cordially invited to join this upstat parade by getting organized and into full production.” — L. Ron Hubbard, March 13, 1971
——————–
“We, the Officers and crew of the Apollo, Athena, AO Greece, SH Greece, Nkambi and Diana wish you a very happy birthday. Each and every one of us consider it a great honor to serve under you and we vow to honour the trust you have placed in us by backing you up and in every way and fully wearing our hats. You have personally helped each and every one of us to be strong and we will grow stronger and stronger as the days go by. We acknowledge you as the source of Power in Scientology and on this planet and in this Universe. We will do everything we can to ease your burden, to defend you, to give you more ease and provide active contribution to the achievement of our targets. You have, without reservation, our unlimited devotion and loyalty.” — Deputy Captain, Officers and Crew of Apollo; Captain, Officers and Crew AO/SH Greece; Captain, Nkambi; Captain, Officers and Crew of “Diana”; Captain, Officers and Crew of “Athena,” March 13, 1969
——————–
“The Independent field is still spending far more time on its own circular comm cycles and infighting that we’ve totally lost the point of why we’re all here. The actual VFP — spiritual freedom for ourselves and others — has just been almost dismissed as an irrelevance. Why can’t we swallow that gnat of our respective games conditions, which frankly are circular and pointless games of chasing overts and motivators, and look at the war zone that surrounds us and just do what we can? How could individuals ever think that there’s anything to be gained in the long term from a narrow-minded 1D introverted view, when ultimately it is themselves they are destroying? I have lurked in the shadows of the Independent field for perhaps a decade and a half now, not really wanting to stick my head too far up the parapet having witnessed the ongoing bizarreness. I think now more than ever, people desperately need our help. We’ve got so much suffering and so much misery that we need to get busy, even if we have disagreements. We need to stop being stuck in Be and start doing a bit of Do and Have. We are clear to the touchline to make a fundamental and unique difference to the planet right now and there are literally no actual barriers stopping us from doing so other than those which we’ve mocked up for ourselves.”
——————–
1999: The Tampa Tribune published an article describing the relationship between Scientology and the city of Clearwater, Florida, and the new Super Power building. “A 10,000-pound hammer drove another 40-foot-long sheet of metal into the ground across the street – the site of a planned 324,000-square-foot Scientology training and counseling center in downtown. The six-story complex will be one of the largest buildings in Pinellas County. Work on the foundation, which began in early February, confirms what some Clearwater residents and downtown merchants consider anathema and others accept without emotion: The church is growing. From a large video screen in the hotel mezzanine, parishioners are guided on a computer-generated tour of the new complex. The center will mirror the hotel’s Mediterranean style, with a 150-foot decorative tower on its west side. Sculptures depicting the fundamentals of Scientology will greet guests as they enter a three-story atrium. City officials and Scientology representatives held meetings last summer and fall after Roberto unveiled a long-term redevelopment strategy for key areas of the city, including downtown. Observers say the church and city are trying to be better neighbors. About a year ago, the church replaced its staff’s blue uniforms with more casual clothing. It also sponsors a variety of community events. Scientology officials also agreed to a city suggestion to move their staff dining facility from a building on downtown’s main drag to the new training complex. Church staffers and parishioners will be able to access the new facility from the hotel and the future auditorium via overhead pedestrian walkways. Glenn Warren, chairman of the Clearwater Downtown Development Board, says merchants hold mixed views about the new church facility despite additional tourists and more property taxes. ‘Many of my friends are dead-set against them,’ says Warren, whose father started the family business downtown in 1930. ‘But damn if I can tell the difference between a Scientologist’s dollar and a Baptist dollar or a Presbyterian’s dollar. And that’s the point. My personal feeling is that anything that large is going to have a positive impact within the community.'”
——————–
“So they regulate brothels in Nevada but not drug rehabs?”
——————–
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 April 15.
— ‘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 March 31.
— David Gentile, GPB Capital, convicted of fraud, awaiting sentencing.
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 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.
——————–
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 founder L. Ron Hubbard is 113 today: Let’s celebrate with his own words!
[TWO years ago] Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard’s 112th birthday: What’s your favorite tall tale of his?
[THREE years ago] It’s Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard’s eleventy-first birthday! And we have guests!
[FOUR years ago] L. Ron Hubbard is 110 years old, and Scientology is ready for its close-up!
[FIVE years ago] For Scientology on L. Ron Hubbard’s birthday: A sworn declaration from Mike Rinder!
[SIX years ago] Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard is celebrating another birthday, and it’s a party!
[SEVEN years ago] Scientology TV kicks off with Miscavige monologue, settles into familiar propaganda
[EIGHT years ago] Danny Masterson turns 41 today, and we have a gift from his cast and crew at ‘The Ranch’
[NINE years ago] John Travolta and his ancient galactic friends celebrate Scientology’s holiest day of year
[TEN years ago] L. Ron Hubbard and ‘Going Clear’ — a reading list to celebrate Scientology’s birthday boy!
[ELEVEN years ago] ‘BARE-FACED MESSIAH’ back in print: Our interview with author Russell Miller
[TWELVE years ago] What Could L. Ron Hubbard Use on His 102nd Birthday? How About a Little SUPER POWER!
——————–
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 3,202 days.
Valerie Haney has not seen her mother Lynne in 3,697 days.
Katrina Reyes has not seen her mother Yelena in 4,212 days
Sylvia Wagner DeWall has not seen her brother Randy in 3,762 days.
Brian Sheen has not seen his grandson Leo in 2,752 days.
Klaus Büchele has not seen his daughter Jasmin in 5,138 days.
Geoff Levin has not seen his son Collin and daughter Savannah in 2,633 days.
Christie Collbran has not seen her mother Liz King in 5,937 days.
Clarissa Adams has not seen her parents Walter and Irmin Huber in 3,808 days.
Jamie Sorrentini Lugli has not seen her father Irving in 5,360 days.
Quailynn McDaniel has not seen her brother Sean in 4,701 days.
Dylan Gill has not seen his father Russell in 13,268 days.
Melissa Paris has not seen her father Jean-Francois in 9,187 days.
Valeska Paris has not seen her brother Raphael in 5,355 days.
Mirriam Francis has not seen her brother Ben in 4,937 days.
Claudio and Renata Lugli have not seen their son Flavio in 5,196 days.
Sara Goldberg has not seen her daughter Ashley in 4,233 days.
Lori Hodgson has not seen her son Jeremy and daughter Jessica in 3,949 days.
Marie Bilheimer has not seen her mother June in 3,513 days.
Julian Wain has not seen his brother Joseph or mother Susan in 1,828 days.
Charley Updegrove has not seen his son Toby in 3,003 days.
Derek Bloch has not seen his father Darren in 4,685 days.
Cindy Plahuta has not seen her daughter Kara in 5,022 days.
Roger Weller has not seen his daughter Alyssa in 9,876 days.
Claire Headley has not seen her mother Gen in 4,991 days.
Ramana Dienes-Browning has not seen her mother Jancis in 3,353 days.
Brian Sheen has not seen his daughter Spring in 3,762 days.
Skip Young has not seen his daughters Megan and Alexis in 4,160 days.
Mary Kahn has not seen her son Sammy in 4,036 days.
Lois Reisdorf has not seen her son Craig in 3,601 days.
Phil and Willie Jones have not seen their son Mike and daughter Emily in 4,112 days.
Mary Jane Barry has not seen her daughter Samantha in 4,368 days.
Kate Bornstein has not seen her daughter Jessica in 15,476 days.
——————–
Posted by Tony Ortega on March 13, 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
While libturds weep, Q patriots celebrate the storm’s arrival
Some links to Q-related items today
Advertisement(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});Robert Morris sponsored one of Trump’s Inaugural Balls in 2017.
Morris was just indicted on five felony counts of lewd or indecent acts. The victim was a 12 year old girl.
pic.twitter.com/SHS0K9CADG— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) March 13, 2025
Is this a tweet from another Earth in the multiverse where Chuck Schumer is the Senate Majority Leader? pic.twitter.com/fOqs4Rm2i9
— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) March 13, 2025
Another DOGE agent identified as having ties to white nationalists. Noah Peters, id'ed as DOGE senior advisor at OPM, has represented white nationalists Jared Taylor (AmRen) and Marcus Epstein (Youth for Western Civilization).
DOGE Agent: Noah Peters https://t.co/hr3YhRiXD8
— Devin Burghart (@dburghart) March 12, 2025
1. The DOGE website is garbage. The claimed savings has no relationship to the data provided.
And the data that is provided grossly inflates the savings from each canceled contract.
So we just launched our own site — the Musk Watch DOGE Tracker — that breaks everything… pic.twitter.com/beVYFVKbI9
— Judd Legum (@JuddLegum) March 12, 2025
We have now moved to a new stage in the grift where the people who have spent years telling you the Epstein Client List would bring the whole house of cards crashing down start saying "Epstein List Shempstein List. I don't care about that. We're getting arrests baby!" pic.twitter.com/glfr5gdPFZ
— Poker and Politics (@PokerPolitics) March 12, 2025
This was posted by a January 6th rioter pic.twitter.com/vYeBmr3DSp
— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) March 12, 2025
Proudboy crypto meme coins, JFK Jr's t-shirt design, Sebastian Gorka's snuff film, multiple nazi salutes… part two of our demoralizing adventures at CPAC can be listened to now! pic.twitter.com/efORlyNErL
— QAA Podcast (@QAApod) March 12, 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 March 13, 2025 at 08:00
March 12, 2025
Losing Mike Rinder: How Scientology is using it in appeal of Leah Remini’s suit
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?]
——————–
Technology Cocktail
“As the time track is created by an involuntary response of the thetan, it is and exists as a real thing, composed of space, matter, energy, time and significance. On a Level (8) Case the time track is completely submerged by charge even down to a total unawareness of thought itself. At Level (7) awareness of the track is confined by extant charge to opinions about it. At Level (6) charge on the track is such that pictures of pictures of the track are gratuitously furnished, causing delusive copies of inaccurate copies of the track. At Level (5) charge is sufficient to cause only inaccurate copies of the track to be viewable. At Level (4) charge is sufficient to obscure the track. At Level (3) charge is sufficient to wipe out portions of the track. At Level (2) there is only enough charge to maintain the existence of the track. At Level (1) there is no charge and no track to create it. All charge from Level (1) and up into higher states that is generated is knowingly generated by the thetan, whose ability to hold locations in space and poles apart results in charge as needful.” — L. Ron Hubbard, 1978
——————–
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
——————–
“Let’s be some distance from the body, if possible. Some distance from the body and find some places where you are not. Some more places where you are not. Now some things from which you are not exteriorizing. Some things you’re not at this moment getting out of. And now some things that aren’t pulling you into them. And some things you are not getting out of. And now some things you’re not stuck in. Some more things you’re not stuck in. Now some energy masses that aren’t wrapping themselves around you at this moment. All right. Now some energy masses you aren’t wrapping yourself around at this moment. And now some effort you are not at this moment trying to get out of. Some effort you’re not trying to keep from expending at this moment. All right.” — L. Ron Hubbard, March 12, 1954
——————–
“SOURCE TO CAUSE: I’ve heard it said that as ‘source’ I should handle something way outside my general activity. This is a confusion between SOURCE and CAUSE. Whereas I am source of data, overall coordination and planning, You are CAUSE over your area. Results are the effect of your own efforts. When these support general programmes we all win. You should not minimize yourself as CAUSE. It is your greatest ability. Being Blamed sometimes blunts Being Cause. But if one’s total ambition is to be blameless the best situation is to get one’s name on a tombstone. And it’s no fun being dead. Being CAUSE over Matter, Energy, Space, Time, Force, Form, Location and Life is just another way of saying ‘OT’.” — The Commodore, March 12, 1970
——————–
“Clear really is something spectacular and very worthwhile, and highly stable. Despite all the knocks and bullying I’ve had over the past 40 years, the state is beyond price. Clear has not been available in the Church of Scientology for many years now, you won’t find it there. But if one were to follow the procedures exactly as laid out in DMSMH, Clear is still available for free. If Ron had done nothing else after the publication of DMSMH it would still remain a workable system to achieve Clear. I warmly recommend it.”
1998: A German news crew flew a helicopter over Scientology’s Hemet, California base. From the Presse-Enterprise: “Federal aviation officials are investigating a complaint filed by the Church of Scientology alleging that a helicopter hired by two Germans flew too close to its school behind the Soboba Indian Reservation. The Germans, who authorities said were television reporters, later were involved in a confrontation with Scientology officials outside the school in which both sides arrested each other. Ken Hoden, general manager of the church’s Golden Era Productions, said Monday’s incident was related to the problems Scientologists have in Germany. He described the helicopter’s action as ‘a total disregard’ for the privacy and safety of the children who attend the Castile Canyon School. Scientologists believe two passengers in the helicopter were the same people who posed as German vacationers during a public tour of the church’s complex in Gilman Hot Springs on Sunday, Hoden said. They left after Hoden said he started questioning their motives because they matched the description of a couple who earlier had been ‘harassing’ the church’s headquarters in Los Angeles. Pilot Steve DeJesus said the Germans originally said they wanted to rent the helicopter to take photographs of the Soboba Indian Reservation east of San Jacinto. He said he flew within a safe distance of 300 to 500 feet above the school, disputing Scientologists’ claims that he came within 50 to 150 feet. ‘We didn’t fly over any people or over any buildings,’ DeJesus said. The children went into the buildings as soon as the helicopter appeared, he said. Arrested on trespassing charges were Ina Brockmann, 33, and Peter Reichelt, 40, both of Mannheim, Germany. Arrested on false imprisonment charges were Hoden, 51, Scientologist cameraman Francois Dejust, 35, school security guard Uwe Stuckenbrock, 34, and church employee Henry Batterton, 39.”
——————–
“I’m not ‘hating’ on anybody — especially folks I don’t even know — but on the other hand I don’t believe in turning a blind eye in order to maintain a positive front. My sister undoubtedly put her kids in the Sea Org, and for that I could never forgive her.”
——————–
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 April 15.
— ‘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 March 31.
— David Gentile, GPB Capital, convicted of fraud, awaiting sentencing.
Civil litigation:
— Leah Remini v. Scientology, alleging ‘Fair Game’ harassment and defamation: Some defamation claims were removed by Judge Hammock. Judge Hammock’s ruling is on appeal.
— 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 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.
——————–
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] Jane Doe 1: Scientology’s forced arbitration shouldn’t apply in a lawsuit about sex abuse
[TWO years ago] Celebrity Sunday: Jim Meskimen, Terry Jastrow, and… Helena Kobrin?
[THREE years ago] Scientology wants you to dress up like a pirate before it takes your booty
[FOUR years ago] UCLA’s voice of the Rose Bowl & Pauley Pavilion scores Scientology Super Power!
[FIVE years ago] The new Scientology OT 8s are here! Masters of matter, energy, space, and time!
[SIX years ago] Scientology TV debuted one year ago, and it’s still unwatchable propaganda
[SEVEN years ago] Tonight, ‘Vanity Fair Confidential’ brings the Shelly Miscavige story to the ID network
[EIGHT years ago] David Miscavige wants to turn Clearwater into Scientology’s Vatican — but can he?
[NINE years ago] Meet the guy Scientology is relying on to get the ‘disconnection’ billboard stopped
[TEN years ago] DOX: Two early Dianetics supporters, including the E-meter inventor, turn against Hubbard
[ELEVEN years ago] Vivian Kubrick posts remarkable photos from the sets of her father’s movies
[TWELVE years ago] Scientology Starts Out as Staring Contests
——————–
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 3,201 days.
Valerie Haney has not seen her mother Lynne in 3,696 days.
Katrina Reyes has not seen her mother Yelena in 4,211 days
Sylvia Wagner DeWall has not seen her brother Randy in 3,761 days.
Brian Sheen has not seen his grandson Leo in 2,751 days.
Klaus Büchele has not seen his daughter Jasmin in 5,137 days.
Geoff Levin has not seen his son Collin and daughter Savannah in 2,632 days.
Christie Collbran has not seen her mother Liz King in 5,936 days.
Clarissa Adams has not seen her parents Walter and Irmin Huber in 3,807 days.
Jamie Sorrentini Lugli has not seen her father Irving in 5,359 days.
Quailynn McDaniel has not seen her brother Sean in 4,700 days.
Dylan Gill has not seen his father Russell in 13,267 days.
Melissa Paris has not seen her father Jean-Francois in 9,186 days.
Valeska Paris has not seen her brother Raphael in 5,354 days.
Mirriam Francis has not seen her brother Ben in 4,936 days.
Claudio and Renata Lugli have not seen their son Flavio in 5,195 days.
Sara Goldberg has not seen her daughter Ashley in 4,232 days.
Lori Hodgson has not seen her son Jeremy and daughter Jessica in 3,948 days.
Marie Bilheimer has not seen her mother June in 3,512 days.
Julian Wain has not seen his brother Joseph or mother Susan in 1,827 days.
Charley Updegrove has not seen his son Toby in 3,002 days.
Derek Bloch has not seen his father Darren in 4,684 days.
Cindy Plahuta has not seen her daughter Kara in 5,021 days.
Roger Weller has not seen his daughter Alyssa in 9,875 days.
Claire Headley has not seen her mother Gen in 4,990 days.
Ramana Dienes-Browning has not seen her mother Jancis in 3,352 days.
Brian Sheen has not seen his daughter Spring in 3,761 days.
Skip Young has not seen his daughters Megan and Alexis in 4,159 days.
Mary Kahn has not seen her son Sammy in 4,035 days.
Lois Reisdorf has not seen her son Craig in 3,600 days.
Phil and Willie Jones have not seen their son Mike and daughter Emily in 4,111 days.
Mary Jane Barry has not seen her daughter Samantha in 4,367 days.
Kate Bornstein has not seen her daughter Jessica in 15,475 days.
——————–
Posted by Tony Ortega on March 12, 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
Owning the libs so hard: Trump and Elon selling Teslas at the White House
Some links to Q-related items today
Advertisement(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});Americans: We’d like to afford basic necessities, keep vital programs, and not lose our retirement savings.
Trump: Best I can do is a car commercial for the richest man on Earth. pic.twitter.com/OHrMcbEqEG
— MeidasTouch (@MeidasTouch) March 11, 2025
Trump bought the cheapest Tesla available during his White House Tesla sales event pic.twitter.com/0hbzf5f9Ii
— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) March 11, 2025
Biden having a cheat sheet for what reporters to pick during a press conference was a National scandal that proved he wasn’t fit to be President. https://t.co/e3K5Y7hMfe
— Poker and Politics (@PokerPolitics) March 11, 2025
"I will do that. I'm gonna stop them." — Trump on declaring that Tesla protesters are domestic terrorists pic.twitter.com/34xu3i5QxP
— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) March 11, 2025
Bad day for the “Trump will get sick of Elon bc he’s getting all the attention” narrative.
— David Weigel (@daveweigel) March 11, 2025
He never says what the crime is https://t.co/ZO4vhI7Doq
— David Weigel (@daveweigel) March 11, 2025
MUSK: A sophisticated cyberattack from Ukraine took out Twitter's servers
REALITY: Twitter's servers were not secured properly and were publicly visible
Great explainer here from @lilyhnewman https://t.co/tW1QAFP7jj
— David Gilbert (@daithaigilbert) March 11, 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 March 12, 2025 at 08:00
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