An updated civil lawsuit against the Church of Scientology and actor Danny Masterson paints a grim picture of a mob-like organization engaged in criminal activities, protecting its members at any cost. Filed by four women who accused Masterson of rape, the 104-page document alleges that Scientology operates as a racketeering outfit, likening its leader David Miscavige to a Mafia boss who profits from the church’s illegal actions.

These allegations emerged from the legal battles involving Masterson, a known Scientologist and former star of “That ’70s Show.” After two trials, one resulting in a hung jury, Masterson was found guilty of forcibly raping two women at his Hollywood Hills home approximately two decades ago. He has been incarcerated since the jury’s verdict in May.

The lawsuit asserts that Scientology employs its wealth, accumulated through alleged fraud, human trafficking, identity theft, and money laundering, to protect and promote its members, particularly celebrities like Masterson. It argues that the church recruited Masterson as a public ambassador, aiding his acting career and offering him preferential treatment. This support allegedly extended to an aggressive campaign of harassment against his accusers, involving threats, surveillance, and even physical intimidation.

One such accuser, Tricia Vessey, testified in Masterson’s first criminal trial, claiming she was drugged and raped by him. However, due to fear of further harassment, she refrained from testifying in the second trial. The complaint details relentless and terrifying tactics used against the accusers, including the murder of a pet, threats to their children, and invasive surveillance.

The suit also revisits the history of Scientology’s controversial practices, referencing the conviction of L. Ron Hubbard’s third wife, Mary Sue, and other Scientologists for conspiracies involving espionage against government agencies. It suggests that such tactics have evolved but continue, as evidenced by the alleged treatment of Masterson’s accusers.

The plaintiffs’ lawyers argue that Scientology’s philosophy of incessant profit-making, which involves recruiting high-profile members and shielding them from consequences, is central to the church’s operations. They claim that Miscavige and other church leaders have orchestrated a comprehensive strategy to silence and intimidate anyone daring to speak against the church or its members.

As Masterson awaits his appeal, the civil lawsuit is set for a 2025 trial. The complaint doesn’t specify damages but aims to highlight the alleged ongoing criminal conduct within Scientology. Masterson’s defense continues to assert his innocence, arguing against the inclusion of Scientology’s controversial history in his criminal trials, fearing it might prejudice jurors.

The Church of Scientology, known for its secretive nature and aggressive defense against criticism, has not responded to these latest allegations. The case not only puts Masterson’s actions under scrutiny but also threatens to expose the darker underbelly of Scientology, potentially impacting its high-profile members and the church’s future. As the legal battles unfold, the world watches closely, awaiting the outcomes that might redefine the public’s perception of Scientology and its operations.

You May Also Like

+ There are no comments

Add yours