In a significant development in the civil harassment lawsuit against the Church of Scientology and actor Danny Masterson, plaintiffs have called for the inclusion of RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act) charges against the organization. Labeling the Church a “criminal enterprise,” the plaintiffs allege a pattern of racketeering activities, including fraud, human trafficking, identity theft, and money laundering.

The proposed second amended complaint, which now includes three more rape claims against the incarcerated “That ’70s Show” actor, is pushing for the Los Angeles courts to recognize the gravity of the accusations by adding mafia-inspired RICO charges. The complaint, if accepted, would expand to include 22 claims from plaintiffs Chrissie Carnell Bixler, Cedric Bixler-Zavala, and several Jane Does, among others. They accuse the Church of engaging in systematic criminal activities to enrich its leadership, with David Miscavige, the leader of Scientology, being a central figure in the alleged enterprise.

The lawsuit paints a grim picture of Scientology’s operations, alleging that it goes to great lengths to protect its members, especially celebrities, from external scrutiny and legal consequences. The plaintiffs argue that the Church has been complicit in covering up sexual assaults by Masterson and has launched aggressive harassment campaigns against victims once the assaults were disclosed.

One poignant aspect of the amended complaint is the emphasis on sexual assaults and alleged cover-ups by Masterson, with the Church playing an active role in the aftermath. The plaintiffs claim that Scientology knew Masterson was a rapist but concealed this fact, leading to more victims. The complaint includes allegations of rapes dating back to the mid-1990s, including those of actress Tricia Vessey and a 15-year-old Scientologist.

The Church of Scientology has dismissed the allegations as “complete fabrications” and an “attempted money grab.” However, the plaintiffs are steadfast in their pursuit of justice, seeking damages and injunctive relief for the alleged crimes and harassment they have endured.

This legal battle is set against the backdrop of Masterson’s recent transfer to North Kern State Prison to serve a 30-year-to-life sentence for multiple rape convictions. The case has garnered widespread attention, highlighting the alleged abuses within Scientology and the potential misuse of its influence to protect high-profile members.

As the plaintiffs seek to expand their lawsuit to include RICO charges, the legal proceedings are drawing closer scrutiny to the practices of the Church of Scientology, its treatment of members, and its responses to accusations of criminal activities. The case is set for a trial date of September 22, 2025, with a hearing on the leave to amend motion scheduled for February 27. This lawsuit represents a critical moment in the ongoing scrutiny of the Church of Scientology’s operations and its impact on its members and alleged victims.

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