TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: A federal judge has denied the motion by Valeska Paris asking him to do something about Scientology’s ‘religious arbitration’ becoming intolerable. The judge didn’t even compel Scientology to put an end date on what [...]]]>

 
TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: A federal judge has denied the motion by Valeska Paris asking him to do something about Scientology’s ‘religious arbitration’ becoming intolerable. The judge didn’t even compel Scientology to put an end date on what has already lasted 15 days, with no end in sight. Incredible. [What is this Substack thing, anyway?]

 
——————–

Technology Cocktail

“Psychotics deal with doing people in. Their whole mission in life is destruction. They inveigh against lower level gains and seek to discredit them since these run
contrary to their aberrated purpose. But when it gets to Clears and OT levels, psychos go berzerk! They are, it happens, terrified of punishment for their own crimes. The thought of someone being sensible or powerful enough to punish them (the way they would do) is more than they can stand. You can, with the utmost certainty, identify a criminal psychotic by the way he vilifies or degrades or seeks to stop Clears and OTs from coming into existence.” — L. Ron Hubbard, 1982

 
——————–

Source Code

“Now you get down toward the Center of this galaxy and the possibility of finding somebody without the Helatrobus Implants, of finding any foreign implant system, will probably be totally negligible. Probably nonextant, you see? But out here you got a mixed bag and we don’t know what they did in the next galaxy. See? Now, science fiction writers following the cue of some chap, I’ve forgotten his name now, Einstein, Beinstein, something like that, who said that MC squared over C wouldn’t go, man, and that the speed of light could not be excessive. And actually I was looking up some speed tables the other day, and a trillion light years per day is not full throttle on a space wagon. So there’s traffic between galaxies and there’s traffic between islands of galaxies and other islands of galaxies. Interesting.” — L. Ron Hubbard, May 21, 1963

 
——————–

Avast, Ye Mateys

“The auditing was in general better today. Auditors go in fads — now it’s ‘feelings.’ Nobody has any aches, pains or misemotions. They have ‘feelings!’ What happened to good old PAIN. Some aren’t able to confront the flak we get into. It takes a bit of guts to be around Flag. And some get very nervous and want to leave. We have 3 or 4 good things I don’t quit. Thanks for holding the ship together.” — The Commodore, May 21, 1969

 
——————–

Overheard in the FreeZone

“The local ruling corporeals sit around in their disposable clones in their underground arenas doing figure-figure on who will be the prophesied coming messiah, poor devils. I’m glad you saw this for yourself and on the higher levels of the playing field(s). I can only ask myself, ‘What is your (meaning ‘my’) cause?’ so as not to get into self-defeating contention with those who hold onto non-life and covert goals. Eyes wide open.”

 
——————–

Past is Prologue

1998: The Boston Herald published a story on the death of Philip Gale this week. “Alone in a 15th-floor classroom, MIT sophomore Philip C. Gale drew a physics formula on a blackboard showing what happens when a body falls from a great height. Then he slammed a chair through the classroom window and jumped more than 200 feet to his death, as horrified students watched from a plaza below. As evidence emerged that Gale was suffering from depression, students and staff wondered aloud about why the high-pressure school’s psychological safety net didn’t save him. And friends raised questions about whether his upbringing in a controversial religion – the Church of Scientology – played a part in his suicide. Gale had quit the church. Even so, he chose to kill himself on March 13, the church’s most important annual holiday marking the birthday of the late Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard. The suicide provoked intense debate on campus, and on the Internet newsgroup alt.religion.scientology, about whether it was linked to Gale’s Scientology upbringing. And Munsey soon created a Web page titled ‘Who is Philip Gale?’ raising questions about a link between Scientology and the suicide. According to Gale’s friends, depression – or what he called ‘boredom’ or a ‘void’ – had long been masked by his irreverent sense of humor. The tall, skinny overachiever with close-cropped, bright red hair began to see his computer and music classwork as ‘inane.’ He spent hours banging on a drum set and playing computer games. Gale was still coming to terms with the sudden death of his father two years ago – at age 47 – of a heart attack, said Lauren McLeod, 22, a college friend who is now a reporter for the Concord Journal. And Gale had recently paid one visit to a therapist. He rarely talked about quitting the Church of Scientology, where his mother, Marie Gale, remained a prominent church official, the friends said.”

 
——————–

Random Howdy

“The only other ‘church’ I can think of that stoops to calling people names is the Westboro Baptist Church.”

 
——————–

Full Court Press: What we’re watching at the Underground Bunker

Criminal prosecutions:
— Danny Masterson charged for raping three women: Sentenced to 30 years to life on Sep 7, 2023. Appeal now fully briefed, waiting for 2nd Appellate District court to set a hearing date. Masterson has also submitted a habeas corpus petition.
— ‘Lafayette Ronald Hubbard’ (a/k/a Justin Craig), aggravated assault, plus drug charges: Grand jury indictments include charges from an assault while in custody. Pleaded guilty on Nov 10 to a 17-year prison sentence (eligible for parole in two to three more years). Awaiting transfer to state prison.
— Aaron Matthes charged for SA of child under 12 years old: OT Scientologist facing multiple mandatory life sentences. Next pretrial court hearing set for March 9.

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, which is now fully briefed. Awaiting the setting of an oral arguments hearing.
— Baxter, Baxter, and Paris v. Scientology, alleging labor trafficking: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’
— Valerie Haney v. Scientology: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’ 15 days of arbitration completed, Val waiting for further word from the IJC.
— Chrissie Bixler et al. v. Scientology and Danny Masterson. Judge Upindra Kalra’s ruling denying Scientology’s motion to strike is on appeal. Appeal fully briefed. Motion to replace Jane Does’ AI-tainted brief denied by court. Oral arguments hearing on March 3.
— Jane Doe 1 v. Scientology, David Miscavige, and Gavin Potter: Case unsealed and second amended complaint filed. Scientology moves for religious arbitration. Trial has been set for January 10, 2028.

 
——————–

 
Other links: The prosecution of Danny Masterson. Leah Remini’s Fair Game Podcast. Leah Remini’s A&E Series. Scientology’s Celebrities, from A to Z. Bryan Seymour’s suppressed series, 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] Brooks Gibbs and the grass-roots movement that made Scientology blink
[TWO years ago] Another ‘Tom Cruise leaving Scientology’ squawk from the tabs, and the weakest ever
[THREE years ago] Scientology spying on Amy Scobee and Mat Pesch: Cameras pointed in their home
[FOUR years ago] THE VALESKA PARIS DECLARATION: Here’s her full report to Clearwater PD on Scientology abuses
[FIVE years ago] Day four of the Danny Masterson prelim: The arguments and a ruling!
[SIX years ago] Scientology so stoked you watched ‘Spread a Smile’ video, it’s trying to cash in tonight
[SEVEN years ago] A Scientologist is brutally murdered in Peoria, but you didn’t hear it from Scientology
[EIGHT years ago] Scientology’s elaborate use of child labor for pennies an hour, spelled out in black and white
[NINE years ago] Scientology may be crumbling, but around the world it’s still plotting a planetary takeover
[TEN years ago] Atack: Contradictions in L. Ron Hubbard’s “tech” only increase Scientology discipline
[ELEVEN years ago] Leah Remini and Paulette Cooper? Scientology can start worrying now
[TWELVE years ago] No, LA Weekly, Tom Cruise’s career was not ruined by a GIF
[THIRTEEN years ago] Disconnection: Scientology’s Most Toxic Sacrament

 
——————–

 
——————–

Posted by Tony Ortega on May 21, 2026 at 07:00

E-mail tips to tonyo94 AT gmail DOT com or follow us on Twitter.

Our book with Paulette Cooper, Battlefield Scientology: Exposing L. Ron Hubbard’s dangerous ‘religion’ is 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, 1995-2024 Just starting out here? We’ve picked out the most important stories we’ve covered here at the Underground Bunker (2012-2024), The Village Voice (2008-2012), New Times Los Angeles (1999-2002) and the Phoenix New Times (1995-1999)

Check your whale level at our dedicated page for status updates.

 

Tony Ortega at The Daily Beast

 

Tony Ortega at Rolling Stone

 TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: Yesterday we told you the breaking news, that an appeals court upheld a ruling that denied Scientology’s attempt to gut the lawsuit filed by Danny Masterson’s victims. Now, here’s the [...]]]>

 
TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: Yesterday we told you the breaking news, that an appeals court upheld a ruling that denied Scientology’s attempt to gut the lawsuit filed by Danny Masterson’s victims. Now, here’s the full 64-page opinion for you to see this almost total win for the Jane Does. [What is this Substack thing, anyway?]

 
——————–

Technology Cocktail

“It’s true on cases and cases of research on criminals. And what’s it all go back to? The psychs! Their brutality and heartlessness is renowned. The data is rolling in. Any more you pick up off a criminal or anyone, send it in. On crime we have an epidemic running on this planet. The wrong causes psychs assign for crime plus their own ‘treatments’ make them a deadly virus. The psychs should not be let to get away with «treatment» which amounts to criminal acts, mayhem and murder. They are not above the law. In fact there are no lairs at all which protect them for what sane society would sanction crime against its citizens even as science? They should be handled like any other criminals. They are at best dramatizing psychotics and dangerous, but more dangerous to society at large than the psychotics they keep in their offices and looney bins because they lie and are treacherous. Why the government funds them I do not know. They are the last ones that should be let loose to handle children.” — L. Ron Hubbard, 1982

 
——————–

Source Code

“It’s my belief that in a good society every child ought to be equipped with and taught to fire a sawed-off shotgun.” — L. Ron Hubbard, May 20, 1952

 
——————–

Avast, Ye Mateys

“BIG LEAGUE: A lot of SO people do not realize that we play in the Big League. It’s not from choice. We are apparently considered a prime threat to those who run things from behind the scenes. A new estimate based on new data of the money spent to knock us out is at least 20 million pounds. Your concept of security and concept of snap and pop on operations and actions should be scaled upward to match the Big League. We are so tiny in numbers we have to make up for it in brilliance and efficiency. No other group on the planet gets the simultaneous international attention that we do. We cave in the pressure against us by highly effective operation of orgs and ships. And it is gradually giving ground. We will win in 3 years IF we play it with Security, brilliance and efficiency on all our parts.” — The Commodore, May 20, 1970

 
——————–

Overheard in the FreeZone

“Scientology is, of course, a body of data. It gives theory and application so one can cause a betterment through auditing and other methods. Scientology is not the cognitions of PCs and OTs. While the wins of PCs and OTs may give a stat for the org, Scientology belongs to L. Ron Hubbard, and the cognitions belong to those who had them.”

 
——————–

Past is Prologue

1997: Attorney Ford Greene held a live interview on the net with OMNI publishing, in which he discussed cults. “The reason I became an attorney was because I had a firsthand awareness based on my being indoctrinated by the Moonies that cults are institutionalized systems of evil. Therefore, I felt compelled as a human being to proactively do what I could to bring sunlight on such evil. I was particularly horrified by the fact that this evil was being perpetrated in the name of God and under cover of the Constitutional protections given to freedom of religion. My theory is this: In order to exercise an intelligent and informed and voluntary consent, an individual always needs at least two things. He needs the raw brainpower to accurately evaluate information. The other thing he needs is sufficient, accurate information to consider. When both are not present at the same time, the result is not a constitutionally effective consent. Cult groups engage in deceptive recruitment practices. When the individual’s capacity to think is high, the cult fails to disclose its true nature, intentions and plans for the individual. Cults mislead the individual by manipulating his need for trust, warmth, belonging, and security to be the agent of his own undoing.”

 
——————–

Random Howdy

“If you want some major lulz, google ‘David Icke forum Scientology’ and get ready to read the 12-foot shape-shifting reptilian fanboys make fun of the immortal super powered Thetans. it’s a hoot.”

 
——————–

Full Court Press: What we’re watching at the Underground Bunker

Criminal prosecutions:
— Danny Masterson charged for raping three women: Sentenced to 30 years to life on Sep 7, 2023. Appeal now fully briefed, waiting for 2nd Appellate District court to set a hearing date. Masterson has also submitted a habeas corpus petition.
— ‘Lafayette Ronald Hubbard’ (a/k/a Justin Craig), aggravated assault, plus drug charges: Grand jury indictments include charges from an assault while in custody. Pleaded guilty on Nov 10 to a 17-year prison sentence (eligible for parole in two to three more years). Awaiting transfer to state prison.
— Aaron Matthes charged for SA of child under 12 years old: OT Scientologist facing multiple mandatory life sentences. Next pretrial court hearing set for March 9.

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, which is now fully briefed. Awaiting the setting of an oral arguments hearing.
— Baxter, Baxter, and Paris v. Scientology, alleging labor trafficking: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’
— Valerie Haney v. Scientology: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’ 15 days of arbitration completed, Val waiting for further word from the IJC.
— Chrissie Bixler et al. v. Scientology and Danny Masterson. Judge Upindra Kalra’s ruling denying Scientology’s motion to strike is on appeal. Appeal fully briefed. Motion to replace Jane Does’ AI-tainted brief denied by court. Oral arguments hearing on March 3.
— Jane Doe 1 v. Scientology, David Miscavige, and Gavin Potter: Case unsealed and second amended complaint filed. Scientology moves for religious arbitration. Trial has been set for January 10, 2028.

 
——————–

 
Other links: The prosecution of Danny Masterson. Leah Remini’s Fair Game Podcast. Leah Remini’s A&E Series. Scientology’s Celebrities, from A to Z. Bryan Seymour’s suppressed series, Scientology Black Ops: Tom Cruise and dirty tricks. Scientology’s Ideal Orgs, from one end of the planet to the other. Scientology’s sneaky front groups, spreading the good news about L. Ron Hubbard while pretending to benefit society. Scientology Lit: Books reviewed or excerpted in a weekly series. How many have you read?

 
——————–

THE WHOLE TRACK

[ONE year ago] Scientology’s deification of founder L. Ron Hubbard: More holy sites opening soon
[TWO years ago] New Scientology memoir out today: For years he led its rabid anti-psychiatry angle
[THREE years ago] Here’s our story about Nancy Cartwright that Scientology doesn’t want you to see
[FOUR years ago] VIDEO: This is peak Scientology, when its big donors were going to clear the planet
[FIVE years ago] Day three of the Danny Masterson prelim: Jane Doe 3’s cross-examination continues
[SIX years ago] Leah Remini to Jane Doe after dismissing suit against Scientology: ‘You let no one down’
[SEVEN years ago] A paradox of apathy and zealotry: What props up Scientology, from within and without
[EIGHT years ago] Russia’s ineffective Scientology crackdown includes smearing foreign leaders
[NINE years ago] Scientology forks over phone numbers to federal judge, who puts his foot down again
[TEN years ago] Scientology gets judge disqualified in forced-abortion lawsuit and wants recent order voided
[ELEVEN years ago] Scientology’s wealthy donors play royalty in Italy while Paulette Cooper takes San Diego
[TWELVE years ago] Marc Headley returns to Scientology and finds a whole new ballgame
[THIRTEEN years ago] Your Hot Scientology Event in Los Angeles Tonight

 
——————–

 
——————–

Posted by Tony Ortega on May 20, 2026 at 07:00

E-mail tips to tonyo94 AT gmail DOT com or follow us on Twitter.

Our book with Paulette Cooper, Battlefield Scientology: Exposing L. Ron Hubbard’s dangerous ‘religion’ is 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, 1995-2024 Just starting out here? We’ve picked out the most important stories we’ve covered here at the Underground Bunker (2012-2024), The Village Voice (2008-2012), New Times Los Angeles (1999-2002) and the Phoenix New Times (1995-1999)

Check your whale level at our dedicated page for status updates.

 

Tony Ortega at The Daily Beast

 

Tony Ortega at Rolling Stone

 TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: Over the past week we’ve taken a couple of looks at California gubernatorial candidate Xavier Becerra’s past as an enthusiastic Scientology booster. But we wondered, how does he feel about Scientology today? Now we [...]]]>

 
TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: Over the past week we’ve taken a couple of looks at California gubernatorial candidate Xavier Becerra’s past as an enthusiastic Scientology booster. But we wondered, how does he feel about Scientology today? Now we have an answer, and David Miscavige isn’t going to like it. [What is this Substack thing, anyway?]

 
——————–

Technology Cocktail

“They say poverty makes crime. They say if one improved education there would be less crime. They say if one cured the lot of the underprivileged one would have
solved crime. All these «remedies» have proven blatantly false. In very poor countries there is little crime. The ‘improving’ education, it was tailored to ‘social reform,’ not teaching skills. And it is a total failure. The fact that rewarding the underprivileged has simply wrecked schools and neighborhoods and cost billions is missing. So who is ‘they’? The psychologist and psychiatrist of course. These were their crackpot remedies for crime. And it’s wrecked a civilization. So what IS the cause of crime? The treatment of course! Electric shocks, behavior modification, abuse of the soul. These are the causes of crime. There would be no criminals at all if the psychs had not begun to oppress beings into vengeance against society. There’s only one remedy for crime—get rid of the psychs! They are causing it!” — L. Ron Hubbard, 1982

 
——————–

Source Code

“We are the only science of mind that has ever come up the line and sat back on its haunches and proved itself across the board, we can also undo that. If we want to take enough trouble we can also save Gracey Zilch. One auditor sits on her head and the other straps the cans to her feet and a third, as she’s being held down, locates what she has been doing on an E-Meter, you see something like a Joburg or something like this, you see, and actually gets the thing taped out and then finally says, ‘Well, Gracey, we’ve got the goods on you. And now why don’t you go off someplace and realize that if you don’t do something decent about this, you’re sunk.’ And I don’t care it might take two hours, two years or two lifetimes; sooner or later she’s going to come in and tell all. Fascinating, huh? We can undo it. So, in a little, tiny, microscopic way, not accepting a half a million dollars from the Communist Party of America to do in a Central Organization; that of course killed a man. I bet you right now he’s tagging around in a schoolroom someplace or another, wondering what is wrong with him and why he feels so spinny. Fellow by the name of Don Purcell. He died. He did this, and for three years he just went on a toboggan and died. One of the reasons was is nobody was interested enough to even try to do anything for him. And the other thing was he had made it impossible to arrive at that data earlier by causing such a tremendous disturbance that he slowed up research.” — L. Ron Hubbard, May 19, 1961

 
——————–

Avast, Ye Mateys

“The technical material I developed from ’68 to ’71 on Flag is published here, trained on here and applied here. We have the best auditors in the world. They are very few. While the Flag Ship Org keeps a ship here, keeps ports here and services those abroad, so that these activities can take place. The Flag Bureaux pushes the Administrative planning and programming which forms up the Continental Liaison Offices which hold the orgs there for FEBCs to return to. Everyone on Flag contributes to these successes, no matter what his post is. We are all operating directly on the VFP of a Cleared Planet. Sometimes this may not be as visible as it might be to someone with his head down into some routine job. But you can measure the success of what you’re doing. Look at the sky-rocketing rise of stats over the world. That’s my stat and Yours. It is in Power.” — The Commodore, May 19, 1971

 
——————–

Overheard in the FreeZone

“Running anything other than composite case after Clear — utilizing New Era Scientology processing and NOT (NOTS) — which only leads one to endlessly run circuits and entities without a subjective reality on actual case factors. Doing so has been shown to be almost fatal at times to one’s health and sanity — and the probable reason why so many have passed away from cancer after having run NOTS.”

 
——————–

Past is Prologue

1996: Mark Ebner, who briefly joined the cult and wrote an article in Spy magazine about his experience, posted a brief description of the response following the article. “I have saved the threatening letters from Scieno lawyers that arrived prior to the publication of my Spy expose. Claiming to be me, they also called the magazine’s printer in Kentucky trying to get advance copies. My credit card was fucked with in a big way.”

 
——————–

Random Howdy

“Thank god I didn’t have to go to confession. It would have taken a team of priests working in shifts to cover my multitude of sins.”

 
——————–

Full Court Press: What we’re watching at the Underground Bunker

Criminal prosecutions:
— Danny Masterson charged for raping three women: Sentenced to 30 years to life on Sep 7, 2023. Appeal now fully briefed, waiting for 2nd Appellate District court to set a hearing date. Masterson has also submitted a habeas corpus petition.
— ‘Lafayette Ronald Hubbard’ (a/k/a Justin Craig), aggravated assault, plus drug charges: Grand jury indictments include charges from an assault while in custody. Pleaded guilty on Nov 10 to a 17-year prison sentence (eligible for parole in two to three more years). Awaiting transfer to state prison.
— Aaron Matthes charged for SA of child under 12 years old: OT Scientologist facing multiple mandatory life sentences. Next pretrial court hearing set for March 9.

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, which is now fully briefed. Awaiting the setting of an oral arguments hearing.
— Baxter, Baxter, and Paris v. Scientology, alleging labor trafficking: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’
— Valerie Haney v. Scientology: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’ 15 days of arbitration completed, Val waiting for further word from the IJC.
— Chrissie Bixler et al. v. Scientology and Danny Masterson. Judge Upindra Kalra’s ruling denying Scientology’s motion to strike is on appeal. Appeal fully briefed. Motion to replace Jane Does’ AI-tainted brief denied by court. Oral arguments hearing on March 3.
— Jane Doe 1 v. Scientology, David Miscavige, and Gavin Potter: Case unsealed and second amended complaint filed. Scientology moves for religious arbitration. Trial has been set for January 10, 2028.

 
——————–

 
Other links: The prosecution of Danny Masterson. Leah Remini’s Fair Game Podcast. Leah Remini’s A&E Series. Scientology’s Celebrities, from A to Z. Bryan Seymour’s suppressed series, 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] What’s it really like at L. Ron Hubbard’s Scientology home?
[TWO years ago] Most damaging Scientology defectors? A case could be made for this Las Vegas couple
[THREE years ago] As the jury deliberates, there’s plenty it didn’t hear about Danny Masterson
[FOUR years ago] Endorsed by the Oregonian, Scientology school is full steam ahead with its real purpose
[FIVE years ago] Day two of the Danny Masterson prelim: Jane Doe 1’s cross-examination continues
[SIX years ago] Mark Bunker wants to get the FBI looking at Scientology in Clearwater
[SEVEN years ago] Free of measles, Scientology’s cruise ship gets back to separating OTs from their money
[EIGHT years ago] When Scientology leader David Miscavige targets you for a beatdown: A Jefferson Hawkins classic
[NINE years ago] Elisabeth Moss in this week’s ‘Handmaid’ sure sounded like FBI testimony about Scientology
[TEN years ago] Here are the instructions Scientologists are getting for the May 28 media center opening!
[ELEVEN years ago] Leah Remini helps us celebrate our book in Los Angeles with a gang of Scientology ‘SPs’
[TWELVE years ago] Scientology’s drug rehab network sued for conspiring to misuse counseling credentials
[THIRTEEN years ago] How Not to Protest Scientology

 
——————–

 
——————–

Posted by Tony Ortega on May 19, 2026 at 07:00

E-mail tips to tonyo94 AT gmail DOT com or follow us on Twitter.

Our book with Paulette Cooper, Battlefield Scientology: Exposing L. Ron Hubbard’s dangerous ‘religion’ is 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, 1995-2024 Just starting out here? We’ve picked out the most important stories we’ve covered here at the Underground Bunker (2012-2024), The Village Voice (2008-2012), New Times Los Angeles (1999-2002) and the Phoenix New Times (1995-1999)

Check your whale level at our dedicated page for status updates.

 

Tony Ortega at The Daily Beast

 

Tony Ortega at Rolling Stone

 TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: Marc and Claire Headley have been great favorites of ours ever since they knocked us out with their stories of escaping Scientology, which Marc told so well in his book ‘Blown for Good.’ But [...]]]>

 
TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: Marc and Claire Headley have been great favorites of ours ever since they knocked us out with their stories of escaping Scientology, which Marc told so well in his book ‘Blown for Good.’ But we were taken by surprise when we heard from them after a recent story that we posted. [What is this Substack thing, anyway?]

 
——————–

Technology Cocktail

“So let us look at psychs again — what they call ‘treatment’ is a suppression (by shocks, drugs, etc.) of the ability to think. They are not honest enough, these psychs, being just dramatizing psychotics themselves for the most part, to publish the fact that all their ‘treatments’ (mayhem really when it is not murder) make people more stupid. These actions of shock and crazy evaluative counselling etc. lower IQ like an express elevator going down to the basement. They do not tell legislators this or put it in their books. This is why they say ‘no one can change IQ.’ They are hiding the fact that they ruin it. So the psych in prisons is engaging in an action (shocking or whatever) that makes people who are already criminal even stupider.” — L. Ron Hubbard, 1982

 
——————–

Source Code

“Some time, by the way, when you haven’t anything else to do, read Gibbon’s ‘Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire.’ That’s quite a thing. I undertook that some years ago because I was having trouble sleeping. But I decided I would read it from one end of that many-volumed volumes to the other — read the whole thing. And it was quite an interesting exercise. I hope I never get so ambitious as to start reading the Encyclopaedia Britannica from one end to the other. But, I will say, I am running out of reading matter now that Ian Fleming has picked himself up another body. May have to do it.” — L. Ron Hubbard, May 18, 1965

 
——————–

Avast, Ye Mateys

“UPPER OT GRADES: By this time there must be about fifteen OT grades above Clear already developed. These exist in research form and have not been released. AOLA is begging for a new one, having delivered 500 OT VIIs. The danger is that an AO or org starts delivering to the same people and disconnects. Jbg broke itself doing this once. Affluent on selling illegal Power Processing, it suddenly used up all its CF. It had not fed in anyone at the bottom — no Testing or HAS or Dn or Lower Grades. It used up its CF hot prospects on Power and that was that. Jbg’s decline dates back to this period. It’s a way of disconnecting from the Public. AOs should be hammering SHs to get people through Solo R6EW and onto Clear and getting Clears onto lower OT grades.” — The Commodore, May 18, 1971

 
——————–

Overheard in the FreeZone

“The insanity that the modern western culture has forced upon me is vanished (e.g, radical feminist and social liberalism and political correctness). The new area of Scientology has taken it away and made it disappear. I feel great today, I feel human again, I feel new. I have my space again, my bigness is restored. Finally I can travel with confidence again, with personal culture and space. The damage a man can have in the east concerns some ‘radical religious Abrahamic fucked up view point.’ In the Neo west there other fucked up insanity (post moderation). Scientology saved me from both pig-fucked philosophies. This journey started with my auditor Bernie and today after I finished the Hubbard Certified new ERA Scientologist, I become free again.”

 
——————–

Past is Prologue

1995: The Phil Donahue show aired a live broadcast on Scientology on Monday. Heber Jentzsch ineptly fended off fairly soft questions from Phil. I think most posters to a.r.s rated it as unsatisfying due to the condition that Heber placed on the show: that no critics of Scientology be present on stage. The only thing I learned was that Heber has a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Utah. The most absurd moments came when a woman claimed the Purif cleaned out her arteriosclerosis after doctors gave her two years to live.

 
——————–

Random Howdy

“All the E-meter is capable of is measuring galvanic skin response. It has as much scientific, technical value as X-Ray glasses and Sea Monkeys.”

 
——————–

Full Court Press: What we’re watching at the Underground Bunker

Criminal prosecutions:
— Danny Masterson charged for raping three women: Sentenced to 30 years to life on Sep 7, 2023. Appeal now fully briefed, waiting for 2nd Appellate District court to set a hearing date. Masterson has also submitted a habeas corpus petition.
— ‘Lafayette Ronald Hubbard’ (a/k/a Justin Craig), aggravated assault, plus drug charges: Grand jury indictments include charges from an assault while in custody. Pleaded guilty on Nov 10 to a 17-year prison sentence (eligible for parole in two to three more years). Awaiting transfer to state prison.
— Aaron Matthes charged for SA of child under 12 years old: OT Scientologist facing multiple mandatory life sentences. Next pretrial court hearing set for March 9.

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, which is now fully briefed. Awaiting the setting of an oral arguments hearing.
— Baxter, Baxter, and Paris v. Scientology, alleging labor trafficking: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’
— Valerie Haney v. Scientology: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’ 15 days of arbitration completed, Val waiting for further word from the IJC.
— Chrissie Bixler et al. v. Scientology and Danny Masterson. Judge Upindra Kalra’s ruling denying Scientology’s motion to strike is on appeal. Appeal fully briefed. Motion to replace Jane Does’ AI-tainted brief denied by court. Oral arguments hearing on March 3.
— Jane Doe 1 v. Scientology, David Miscavige, and Gavin Potter: Case unsealed and second amended complaint filed. Scientology moves for religious arbitration. Trial has been set for January 10, 2028.

 
——————–

 
Other links: The prosecution of Danny Masterson. Leah Remini’s Fair Game Podcast. Leah Remini’s A&E Series. Scientology’s Celebrities, from A to Z. Bryan Seymour’s suppressed series, 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] More Scientology big-donor shenanigans to keep us entertained
[TWO years ago] POOF: Scientology decides the 2022 L. Ron Hubbard Birthday Event never happened
[THREE years ago] Verdict watch: Will defense attorney Philip Cohen’s sartorial splendor be a factor?
[FOUR years ago] Scientology’s homophobia: Checking in with Derek Bloch 10 years after we first met him
[FIVE years ago] Jane Doe 1’s brutal testimony about alleged rape by Danny Masterson on Day 1 of prelim
[SIX years ago] A shocking glimpse inside Scientology’s floating cathedral: ‘All I hear is desperation’
[SEVEN years ago] Graham Berry does it again: More Scientology financial fraud spelled out in legal demand
[EIGHT years ago] Scientology’s founder in 1948: Dianetics was ‘unfrigidizing’ women into ‘nymphos’
[NINE years ago] To whet your appetite for season 2, A&E airing 2-hour ‘Leah Remini’ special on Memorial Day
[TEN years ago] Scientology responds to Garcia accusations; sexy Virginia congressional candidate visits an org
[ELEVEN years ago] Just two blocks from Scientology’s LA headquarters, Paulette Cooper shone
[TWELVE years ago] Sunday Funnies: Scientology fundraising fliers try desperately to hide the truth
[THIRTEEN years ago] Jon Atack on the Hypnotic History of Scientology Auditing

 
——————–

 
——————–

Posted by Tony Ortega on May 18, 2026 at 07:00

E-mail tips to tonyo94 AT gmail DOT com or follow us on Twitter.

Our book with Paulette Cooper, Battlefield Scientology: Exposing L. Ron Hubbard’s dangerous ‘religion’ is 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, 1995-2024 Just starting out here? We’ve picked out the most important stories we’ve covered here at the Underground Bunker (2012-2024), The Village Voice (2008-2012), New Times Los Angeles (1999-2002) and the Phoenix New Times (1995-1999)

Check your whale level at our dedicated page for status updates.

 

Tony Ortega at The Daily Beast

 

Tony Ortega at Rolling Stone

 TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: Whoa — The oral arguments hearing has been scheduled in the direct criminal appeal of Scientology celebrity and ‘That ‘70s Show’ actor Danny Masterson [...]]]>

 
TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: Whoa — The oral arguments hearing has been scheduled in the direct criminal appeal of Scientology celebrity and ‘That ‘70s Show’ actor Danny Masterson — and you can tune in to watch it. The stakes could not be higher for Masterson, who turned 50 years old in prison on March 13. [What is this Substack thing, anyway?]

 
——————–

Technology Cocktail

“Anything that a criminal seeks to obtain can be obtained without crime if one is bright enough. Criminals, as police can tell you, are usually very, very stupid. The things they do and clues they leave around are hallmarks of very low IQ. The «bright» criminal is found only in fiction. Now and then a Hitler comes along and begins a myth that the highly positioned are criminal — but Hitler (and Napoleon and all their ilk) were stupid beyond belief. Hitler destroyed himself and Germany didn’t he? And Napoleon destroyed himself and France. So not even the highly placed criminals are bright. Had they really been bright they could have accomplished a
successful reign without crime. The bones of old civilizations are signboards of stupidity. The jails are bursting with people so stupid they did bad things and even those uncleverly.” — L. Ron Hubbard, 1982

 
——————–

Source Code

“Power of choice, when that is too badly thrown aside, people object to this thing. That is why slavery has gotten a bad name as a practice. In actual fact you look at the economics of it and you find a lot of things about a slave society which are quite interesting. You find a society which is, has no objection to this sort of thing and which can free slaves rather easily and you find a lot of people walking up and saying, ‘I want to be a slave.’ But slavery itself is this thing of a beingness, an enforced beingness over which an individual has no power of choice and therefore it gets a bad name.” — L. Ron Hubbard, May 17, 1962

 
——————–

Avast, Ye Mateys

“The activity called ‘Black Propaganda’ consists of spreading lies by hidden sources. It inevitably results in injustices being done by those who operate without verifying the truth. For instance all the attacks on Scientology were Black Propaganda from hidden Fascist groups. This has caused injustice. Black Propaganda was a Nazi specialty. But injustice recoills on those who deal in it. Thus a hidden lying source can cause authority to act. Thus authority can be undermined by being made to commit injustices….If the world were honest, justice and the need for it would vanish. The road out is the Road to Truth.” — The Commodore, May 17, 1971

 
——————–

Overheard in the FreeZone

“The thirteen senators are alive and well today. Having escaped the effects of the Big Bang — they have resurfaced and disappeared many times throughout this universe’s almost endless history — affecting civilizations to a greater or lesser degree. So me seeing Thoth was correct — one of the senators. The bird-like deity. That is why I am allowed to understand this. Did I receive any help, or it is only my thetan who was the complete cause?”

 
——————–

Past is Prologue

2001: Entertainment Tonight aired an interview with Scientology celebrities Jenna Elfman and Kirstie Allie. “Kirstie said ‘nothing great on this planet goes unattacked.’ Kirstie says about her marriage counselor role on Dharma & Greg: ‘No. I’m a flake. I don’t like marriage counselors, so it’s fun to play these. I’m not a big shrink advocate or counselor advocate, so I like playing them when they’re idiots.’ ‘You know what, here’s the thing. People can attack my religion if they want, they are showing that they are not very bright. Because if they actually investigated it, and read one of the books, they would see that it’s very beautiful.'”

 
——————–

Random Howdy

“Sherbet, if you saw ‘Heavenly Creatures’ — the best film Peter Jackson ever did — you would understand the similarities between the folie à deux world the girls live in and that of Scientologists. Plus it’s got clay modeling as well as Kate Winslet and ‘Rose’ from ‘Two and a Half Men’.”

 
——————–

Full Court Press: What we’re watching at the Underground Bunker

Criminal prosecutions:
— Danny Masterson charged for raping three women: Sentenced to 30 years to life on Sep 7, 2023. Appeal now fully briefed, waiting for 2nd Appellate District court to set a hearing date. Masterson has also submitted a habeas corpus petition.
— ‘Lafayette Ronald Hubbard’ (a/k/a Justin Craig), aggravated assault, plus drug charges: Grand jury indictments include charges from an assault while in custody. Pleaded guilty on Nov 10 to a 17-year prison sentence (eligible for parole in two to three more years). Awaiting transfer to state prison.
— Aaron Matthes charged for SA of child under 12 years old: OT Scientologist facing multiple mandatory life sentences. Next pretrial court hearing set for March 9.

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, which is now fully briefed. Awaiting the setting of an oral arguments hearing.
— Baxter, Baxter, and Paris v. Scientology, alleging labor trafficking: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’
— Valerie Haney v. Scientology: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’ 15 days of arbitration completed, Val waiting for further word from the IJC.
— Chrissie Bixler et al. v. Scientology and Danny Masterson. Judge Upindra Kalra’s ruling denying Scientology’s motion to strike is on appeal. Appeal fully briefed. Motion to replace Jane Does’ AI-tainted brief denied by court. Oral arguments hearing on March 3.
— Jane Doe 1 v. Scientology, David Miscavige, and Gavin Potter: Case unsealed and second amended complaint filed. Scientology moves for religious arbitration. Trial has been set for January 10, 2028.

 
——————–

 
Other links: The prosecution of Danny Masterson. Leah Remini’s Fair Game Podcast. Leah Remini’s A&E Series. Scientology’s Celebrities, from A to Z. Bryan Seymour’s suppressed series, 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] Hear skateboard star Aaron Kyro’s victory speech as he wins Scientology’s ‘Birthday Game’
[TWO years ago] If Scientology’s a sinking ship, why are some still throwing so much money at it?
[THREE years ago] After final rebuttal from prosecution this morning, the jury gets the case
[FOUR years ago] Attorney to CA Supremes: Here’s how you can make history in Danny Masterson’s rape case
[FIVE years ago] Scientology hits on the perfect theme for its Chicago fundraising: Blues Brothers!
[SIX years ago] Leaked audio of Scientology ship commander giving marching orders during the pandemic
[SEVEN years ago] Once again, Scientology celebrates a Nation of Islam bigot tonight in Los Angeles
[EIGHT years ago] Living with Scientology ‘disconnection’: ‘It’s important to never give up hope’
[NINE years ago] San Diego on Saturday: Psych-busting and Scientology hip hop!
[TEN years ago] Judge Doyle: I have Scientologists in the family, but I can be impartial in forced-abortion case
[ELEVEN years ago] ‘The Unbreakable Miss Lovely’ goes on the road — and so does Paulette Cooper!
[TWELVE years ago] L. Ron Hubbard describes infiltrating a veterans’ hospital in a lecture only for Scientologists
[THIRTEEN years ago] And Now For Something Completely Different: Scientology Stand Up!

 
——————–

 
——————–

Posted by Tony Ortega on May 17, 2026 at 07:00

E-mail tips to tonyo94 AT gmail DOT com or follow us on Twitter.

Our book with Paulette Cooper, Battlefield Scientology: Exposing L. Ron Hubbard’s dangerous ‘religion’ is 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, 1995-2024 Just starting out here? We’ve picked out the most important stories we’ve covered here at the Underground Bunker (2012-2024), The Village Voice (2008-2012), New Times Los Angeles (1999-2002) and the Phoenix New Times (1995-1999)

Check your whale level at our dedicated page for status updates.

 

Tony Ortega at The Daily Beast

 

Tony Ortega at Rolling Stone

 TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: Scientology’s longtime ‘president’ Heber Jentzsch died on Oct 30 at 89. We heard the news in January, but we also heard that church leader David Miscavige had taken the unusual step of writing some [...]]]>

 
TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: Scientology’s longtime ‘president’ Heber Jentzsch died on Oct 30 at 89. We heard the news in January, but we also heard that church leader David Miscavige had taken the unusual step of writing some kind of tribute to Heber. We were unable to get a copy of it. Until now. [What is this Substack thing, anyway?]

 
——————–

Technology Cocktail

“It has often been noted (and reported routinely in the papers) that criminals ‘treated’ by psychologists and psychiatrists go out and commit crimes. It could be suspected that these ‘practitioners’ used Pain Drug Hypnosis and other means (under the guise of treatment) to induce the criminal to go out and commit more crimes.
And possibly they do. But I have just made a discovery that sheds some light on this scene. Morality and good conduct are sensible. That is the theme of ‘The Way To Happiness.’ It follows (and can be proven) that immorality and bad conduct are stupid.” — L. Ron Hubbard, 1982

 
——————–

Source Code

“I found out that it makes it tremendously easier to run the bank and that on a very few PCs you will be unable to run the bank unless you get an early engramic incident out of the road. And I also found out that if you can run the overt engram that relates to these GPMs just as an engram, that a fantastic amount of charge will come off the implants themselves, naturally, and therefore they run like-very much like hot butter. I had a little bulletin for you. Found a datum here you might be interested in. That particular outfit was down toward the center of this particular galaxy and was founded at 52 trillion, 863 billion, 10 million, 654 thousand, 79 years (52,863,010,654,079), and I can’t give you a much closer than that, because when place get founded is, more or less becomes part of their lies. But it was founded at that time, and it was destroyed on the date 38 trillion, 932 billion, 690 million, 862 thousand, 933 years ago (38,932,690,862,933), by the 79th wing of the 43rd battle squadron of the galactic fleet. It was not the, part of the galaxy. It was a wildcat activity sitting there. They used to drag Magellanic Clouds out of the center hub of the galaxy, let them follow the lines of force and just let them come over a system. Then when they got around to it, they’d send planes in with speakers, and so forth, and give the place the business. But the place very often was totally caved in for thousands of years by these Magellanic radioactive clouds which would just engulf the particular system. You got the idea? I just give you that in brief, just as a matter of interest, because these dates we’re getting are accurate. I have now compared them up the track and squared them around. These are the dates.” — L. Ron Hubbard, May 16, 1963

 
——————–

Avast, Ye Mateys

“Logic (The Data Series) is written up to Data – 4 now. Occurred to me what if CIA’s multi-billion facts in computers were properly analyzed, WOW, what a different answer they’d get! I realized that as it is ‘analyzed’ they can only decide to go to war with everybody! And do. I can see a conference now at ‘high level.’ ‘What’s the situation on Hamfatia?’ ‘Threatening.’ ‘What’s the situation on Sphagettiville?’ ‘Threatening.’ ‘What’s the situation on the world?’ ‘Threatening.’ ‘Then it’s all threatening?’ ‘Yes.’ ‘Good hit the war button!’ They didn’t notice the ‘Threatening’ button had gotten leaned on by the cleaning lady’s mop the night before. And that’s the way the world went. Point is, if one can’t analyze data he winds up hating everybody — as it’s just one big generality. We’re into real 3rd dynamic tech!” — The Commodore, May 16, 1970

 
——————–

Overheard in the FreeZone

“Twelve hours processing for a PC cured him from a hardship known in the fucking western medicine by ‘borderline disorder personality,’ something that the old bridge would not achieve. The purpose of Scientology is to make the able more able, the new area of Scientology can make any unable able. Well done LRH, well done great master.”

 
——————–

Past is Prologue

2000: Battlefield Earth was released in the U.S. this week. From Roger Ebert of the Chicago Sun-Times: “‘Battlefield Earth’ is like taking a bus trip with someone who has needed a bath for a long time. It’s not merely bad; it’s unpleasant in a hostile way. The visuals are grubby and drab. The characters are unkempt and have rotten teeth. Breathing tubes hang from their noses like ropes of snot. The soundtrack sounds like the boom mike is being slammed against the inside of a 55-gallon drum. This movie is awful in so many different ways. Even the opening titles are cheesy. ‘Battlefield Earth’ was written in 1980 by L. Ron Hubbard, the founder of Scientology. The film contains no evidence of Scientology or any other system of thought; it is shapeless and senseless, without a compelling plot or characters we care for in the slightest. The director, Roger Christian, has learned from better films that directors sometimes tilt their cameras, but he has not learned why. I watched it in mounting gloom, realizing I was witnessing something historic, a film that for decades to come will be the punch line of jokes about bad movies. There is a moment here when the Psychlos’ entire planet (home office and all) is blown to smithereens, without the slightest impact on any member of the audience (or, for that matter, the cast). If the film had been destroyed in a similar cataclysm, there might have been a standing ovation.”

 
——————–

Random Howdy

“I’m on drugs.”

 
——————–

Full Court Press: What we’re watching at the Underground Bunker

Criminal prosecutions:
— Danny Masterson charged for raping three women: Sentenced to 30 years to life on Sep 7, 2023. Appeal now fully briefed, waiting for 2nd Appellate District court to set a hearing date. Masterson has also submitted a habeas corpus petition.
— ‘Lafayette Ronald Hubbard’ (a/k/a Justin Craig), aggravated assault, plus drug charges: Grand jury indictments include charges from an assault while in custody. Pleaded guilty on Nov 10 to a 17-year prison sentence (eligible for parole in two to three more years). Awaiting transfer to state prison.
— Aaron Matthes charged for SA of child under 12 years old: OT Scientologist facing multiple mandatory life sentences. Next pretrial court hearing set for March 9.

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, which is now fully briefed. Awaiting the setting of an oral arguments hearing.
— Baxter, Baxter, and Paris v. Scientology, alleging labor trafficking: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’
— Valerie Haney v. Scientology: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’ 15 days of arbitration completed, Val waiting for further word from the IJC.
— Chrissie Bixler et al. v. Scientology and Danny Masterson. Judge Upindra Kalra’s ruling denying Scientology’s motion to strike is on appeal. Appeal fully briefed. Motion to replace Jane Does’ AI-tainted brief denied by court. Oral arguments hearing on March 3.
— Jane Doe 1 v. Scientology, David Miscavige, and Gavin Potter: Case unsealed and second amended complaint filed. Scientology moves for religious arbitration. Trial has been set for January 10, 2028.

 
——————–

 
Other links: The prosecution of Danny Masterson. Leah Remini’s Fair Game Podcast. Leah Remini’s A&E Series. Scientology’s Celebrities, from A to Z. Bryan Seymour’s suppressed series, 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] Downfall of Scientology’s plan: Temporary setback, or permanent victory?
[TWO years ago] Appeals court denies Jane Doe 1 petition, David Miscavige’s sneaky trick upheld
[THREE years ago] Closing arguments today at the Danny Masterson retrial: We’re ready for fireworks
[FOUR years ago] A Scientology celebrity emailed us the other day. And it started an exchange.
[FIVE years ago] Inside a PR mutiny: How Scientology’s war on Prozac backfired in spectacular fashion
[SIX years ago] He was the drummer in a rock ‘n’ roll band: Eddie Stratton’s Scientology story
[SEVEN years ago] Beyond the quarantine: Signs that Scientology is getting involved in anti-vaxx panic
[EIGHT years ago] Scientology’s smear campaign against Mike Rinder takes a more disturbing turn than usual
[NINE years ago] As Leah Remini’s next season approaches, Scientology posts more videos saying she’s rude
[TEN years ago] Did L. Ron Hubbard believe his own rap? Here’s what he admitted about Scientology in 1952
[ELEVEN years ago] Jon Atack: When the militant Scientologist falters, you find a cowering 12-year-old inside
[TWELVE years ago] Hiding L. Ron Hubbard’s control of Scientology in the 1980s
[THIRTEEN years ago] Scientology Now Has Until July 2 to Turn Over Evidence in Forced-Abortion Lawsuit

 
——————–

 
——————–

Posted by Tony Ortega on May 16, 2026 at 07:00

E-mail tips to tonyo94 AT gmail DOT com or follow us on Twitter.

Our book with Paulette Cooper, Battlefield Scientology: Exposing L. Ron Hubbard’s dangerous ‘religion’ is 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, 1995-2024 Just starting out here? We’ve picked out the most important stories we’ve covered here at the Underground Bunker (2012-2024), The Village Voice (2008-2012), New Times Los Angeles (1999-2002) and the Phoenix New Times (1995-1999)

Check your whale level at our dedicated page for status updates.

 

Tony Ortega at The Daily Beast

 

Tony Ortega at Rolling Stone

 TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: On Wednesday we raised questions about surging California gubernatorial candidate Xavier Becerra’s past as a Scientology booster. Now we’ve found footage of Becerra promoting what turned out to be a Scientology hoax in a [...]]]>

 
TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: On Wednesday we raised questions about surging California gubernatorial candidate Xavier Becerra’s past as a Scientology booster. Now we’ve found footage of Becerra promoting what turned out to be a Scientology hoax in a speech to Congress. How does he feel about that today? [What is this Substack thing, anyway?]

 
——————–

Technology Cocktail

“PTS is a connection to an SP. That is true. But what may be overlooked is that persons of the middle class (which is a culture, not an income bracket, to which belong all the puritan hypocritical mores of the cop and the get-a-job-be-a-moderate-plugging-success) frown very terribly on anything that the least bit tries to make a better world. The middle class wants the world of a job and order and even hypocrisy and cops because they are AFRAID. They hold their narrow views because any other views may disturb their 20 year house mortgage, the store, the job. So when someone decides to make a better world they look on him as a direct menace even though the dull middle class world is a sort of slavery and suicide. It is the middle class that tries the hardest to keep the down-and-outer out and down, who go along with a cop America and hate support of anything not their class. And nearly every PTS you have will be found one way or another to be PTS to the middle class. As a group, not as individuals, the middle-class parent world suppresses anything different. So you have PTSes.” — L. Ron Hubbard, 1982

 
——————–

Source Code

“As far as publicity is concerned the general public has been slammed around about Dianetics and they don’t know whether Dianetics is a cough drop or a new cult down in Arizona. Nobody really knows very much about it. Out in the general public they ask you if it is a cult, or if it is this or if it is that. I suddenly woke up to the fact that I was under-evaluating it. I was trying to tell people ‘Well, this is sort of a psychotherapy and it does this and that,’ rather apologetically. And I said to somebody bluntly the other day, ‘Why, Dianetics is the science of handling life; you know, handling life forces!’ They looked at me and blinked and I said, ‘Yes, you know, a fellow starts downhill and starts down toward death. Well, Dianetics picks him back up again.’ They went away in a trance! Actually, isn’t that what we are doing? The new theta-MEST theory makes that so apparent, and the results you get follow in so closely that, actually, we are doing just that.” — L. Ron Hubbard, May 15, 1951

 
——————–

Avast, Ye Mateys

“US STATS HAVE JUST GONE OVER THE MILLION MARK!!! AOSHUK IS OVER $47,000!” — The Commodore, May 15, 1971

 
——————–

Overheard in the FreeZone

“Fifth day on OT IX. There is like a ‘learning experience’ of life in the MEST. Before when I made a postulate, I don’t know how it happened, if it happened at all. I realize now that I was much less conscious. Now I make a postulate and I feel the static energy blossom, as if I am aligning the MEST to get my postulate. It is a conscious feeling. It might be right in my Universe, but no, the thing is happening in the MEST.”

 
——————–

Past is Prologue

1999: The Associated Press reported that Scientologists held a rally in Washington, DC this week, to protest at the meeting of the American Psychiatric Association. “About 1,000 protesters, dressed in black and many carrying black balloons, picketed a convention of psychiatrists Saturday to demand they stop prescribing mind-altering medications to young people. Such medicine leads to youth violence, said three protest leaders, actresses Kirstie Alley and Juliette Lewis and singer Lisa Marie Presley. ‘They’re making drug addicts out of our children,’ said Alley, best known for her roles on the TV shows ‘Cheers’ and ‘Veronica’s Closet.’ ‘It’s barbaric, and it’s being promoted by psychiatrists.’ The demonstration, organized by the Church of Scientology’s Citizens Commission on Human Rights, targeted the annual meeting of the American Psychiatric Association in downtown Washington. As they marched around the Washington Convention Center, the demonstrators chanted: ‘Don’t drug our kids. Don’t shock our kids. Just leave our kids alone.'”

 
——————–

Random Howdy

“Eva Gabor was awesome in Green Acres, which was one of the most underrated, surrealist shows of all time. It’s worthy of Lynch or Buñuel.”

 
——————–

Full Court Press: What we’re watching at the Underground Bunker

Criminal prosecutions:
— Danny Masterson charged for raping three women: Sentenced to 30 years to life on Sep 7, 2023. Appeal now fully briefed, waiting for 2nd Appellate District court to set a hearing date. Masterson has also submitted a habeas corpus petition.
— ‘Lafayette Ronald Hubbard’ (a/k/a Justin Craig), aggravated assault, plus drug charges: Grand jury indictments include charges from an assault while in custody. Pleaded guilty on Nov 10 to a 17-year prison sentence (eligible for parole in two to three more years). Awaiting transfer to state prison.
— Aaron Matthes charged for SA of child under 12 years old: OT Scientologist facing multiple mandatory life sentences. Next pretrial court hearing set for March 9.

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, which is now fully briefed. Awaiting the setting of an oral arguments hearing.
— Baxter, Baxter, and Paris v. Scientology, alleging labor trafficking: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’
— Valerie Haney v. Scientology: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’ 15 days of arbitration completed, Val waiting for further word from the IJC.
— Chrissie Bixler et al. v. Scientology and Danny Masterson. Judge Upindra Kalra’s ruling denying Scientology’s motion to strike is on appeal. Appeal fully briefed. Motion to replace Jane Does’ AI-tainted brief denied by court. Oral arguments hearing on March 3.
— Jane Doe 1 v. Scientology, David Miscavige, and Gavin Potter: Case unsealed and second amended complaint filed. Scientology moves for religious arbitration. Trial has been set for January 10, 2028.

 
——————–

 
Other links: The prosecution of Danny Masterson. Leah Remini’s Fair Game Podcast. Leah Remini’s A&E Series. Scientology’s Celebrities, from A to Z. Bryan Seymour’s suppressed series, 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] For a final (?) Mission, an older Tom Cruise forgets some basic film lessons
[TWO years ago] First time in English: Rare interview David Miscavige gave during Germany crisis
[THREE years ago] Scientology celebrates Nancy Cartwright for upping her donations to $21 million
[FOUR years ago] Letters from Scientology’s celebrities that charmed the pants off LA’s city council
[FIVE years ago] Scientology chiropractor Eric Berg called out by son in viral TikTok video
[SIX years ago] Scientology’s center specializing in auditing your infant is back open in Florida!
[SEVEN years ago] John Travolta’s daughter makes her own Scientology splash at awards ceremony
[EIGHT years ago] Scientology files notice of appeal in time-wasting federal court attack on forced-abortion case
[NINE years ago] DRONE FLYOVER: An even closer look at where Scientology is keeping Shelly Miscavige
[TEN years ago] Scientology takes on the evil psychs at the APA, and more in our weekly social media review!
[ELEVEN years ago] Las Vegas attorney Ryan Hamilton makes it 29 lawsuits against Scientology’s drug rehab
[TWELVE years ago] TIZIANO LUGLI: A new short film about Scientology and ‘slavery’
[THIRTEEN years ago] CALIFORNIA SUPREME COURT DENIES SCIENTOLOGY PETITION IN FORCED-ABORTION CASE

 
——————–

 
——————–

Posted by Tony Ortega on May 15, 2026 at 07:00

E-mail tips to tonyo94 AT gmail DOT com or follow us on Twitter.

Our book with Paulette Cooper, Battlefield Scientology: Exposing L. Ron Hubbard’s dangerous ‘religion’ is 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, 1995-2024 Just starting out here? We’ve picked out the most important stories we’ve covered here at the Underground Bunker (2012-2024), The Village Voice (2008-2012), New Times Los Angeles (1999-2002) and the Phoenix New Times (1995-1999)

Check your whale level at our dedicated page for status updates.

 

Tony Ortega at The Daily Beast

 

Tony Ortega at Rolling Stone

 TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: In December Scientology made obvious how much it still backs Danny Masterson by submitting an amicus brief to help him win his criminal appeal. The court rejected the brief, but now Scientology has submitted [...]]]>

 
TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: In December Scientology made obvious how much it still backs Danny Masterson by submitting an amicus brief to help him win his criminal appeal. The court rejected the brief, but now Scientology has submitted the amicus AGAIN, showing just how much it wants to free Danny. [What is this Substack thing, anyway?]

 
——————–

Technology Cocktail

“The still needle which does not react on ordinary things it should react on is an indicator of withholds. This is covered in the recent HCOB of 11 April 82 SEC-CHECKING IMPLANTS but there is more data. The ‘withhold’ can be partially gotten off and one can get a strange F/N. It is strange because, while it is an F/N, it is less than normal width and has a sort of spring on each end, as though the needle was hitting a spring or cushion. It is not a nice flowing F/N. And if you look close you can see it is sort of springing back. It is not flowing clean. The F/N also tends to stop too soon, does not carry over. It indicates the subject of the withhold or area of life is still somewhat withheld.” — L. Ron Hubbard, 1982

 
——————–

Source Code

“You ever been on the Pacific Ocean? You look an awful long distance on the Pacific Ocean and you’ll find space, you know. The speculative horizon is like that. It’s way out, man. Boy, I mean we’ve collided with data which is highly debatable as to whether it will be popular or unpopular. And I’m afraid I have to go along with the first foundation decision I made, back in 1950 when they had that board meeting and told me I wasn’t to research on any more past lives. I don’t think they ever did get that end of the building back together again. The bricks are still cracked. And I said, well, psychology and other activities in the field of the mind have always had a large eye on popularity. And they would actually throw away materials which didn’t agree with things. They’d throw away the things which didn’t agree. And that’s why they’ve not come up with any answers. They consult this thing of the popularity of a datum, the acceptability of a datum and have therefore compromised truth. So you either accept truth or popularity.” — L. Ron Hubbard, May 14, 1963

 
——————–

Avast, Ye Mateys

“Smersh operates on false data and has not changed his Situation Analysis in a whole score of years and does not vary tactics to fit new situations. That is valuable information. A general who fought that way would be busy fighting the 151st Bavarian Light Infantry as they were deployed at Niems in 1870! Since then they’ve been disbanded, forgotten, and that trench has been empty for 80 years. Yet such a general would have his whole army concentrating on it! Viewing national governments through this developed logic tech applied to their data and their idea of the situation reveals them to be crazy. And gives one the reason for both war and failing societies. No wonder they end up shooting people.” — The Commodore, May 14, 1970

 
——————–

Overheard in the FreeZone

“After the last session on ENERGY, an hour ago, I started working in the Physical Universe with OT IX technology and I am amazed at how it works. For the first time I stopped giving my dog verbal commands. Just telepathically and it works much better. I have the perception of the flow of energy coming in, how it interacts and how it translates into action. Then I started to ‘see’ the energy that makes up the bodies of the people I meet.”

 
——————–

Past is Prologue

1998: The jury in the Keith Henson case decided to award Scientology $75,000 this week. The San Jose Mercury News published an article on the case. “A Palo Alto engineer will pay a stiff price for thumbing his nose at the Church of Scientology by publishing its teachings on the Internet. After less than a day of deliberations, a San Jose federal jury this week ordered Keith Henson to pay $75,000 to the Religious Technology Center, a wing of the Scientology organization, for deliberately violating copyright laws. The verdict came after a four-day trial before U.S. District Judge Ronald Whyte. Henson, who has warned that the case could have a chilling effect on free speech on the Internet, may face further penalties for putting the church’s published works on-line. Under federal copyright laws, Henson can be ordered to pay the technology center’s legal fees and costs, which could add thousands of dollars to the judgment. Henson has always maintained that he posted the material to alert the public to church positions that amounted to ‘medical and legal abuses.’ Henson and other church critics posted transcripts of the trial on various web sites the past week to highlight what was transpiring in Whyte’s courtroom. Those postings might land Henson in further hot water with the judge: The Internet postings include a substantial portion of Henson’s testimony that took place in closed session because it involved discussion of the secret church documents. Whyte ordered the transcripts sealed, but they have wound up on the Web. Henson said the material was placed online inadvertently and he apologized for the mistake. But church officials may seek further sanctions. Despite the jury’s verdict, Henson remained unapologetic Wednesday. ‘It is amazing the trouble you can get into for trying to warn the public about health hazards,’ Henson said. ‘This (trial) was about saying it’s proper to use copyright (laws) to prevent public discussion of criminal activity. This was just a loss of a battle in a larger war.'”

 
——————–

Random Howdy

“The FDA could have busted Scientology a thousand times over for medical fraud if they simply sent in undercover agents wired for sound and vision to sign up for courses. Scientology registrars will promise any and all medical cures as long as you show them the money. The government is an ass.”

 
——————–

Full Court Press: What we’re watching at the Underground Bunker

Criminal prosecutions:
— Danny Masterson charged for raping three women: Sentenced to 30 years to life on Sep 7, 2023. Appeal now fully briefed, waiting for 2nd Appellate District court to set a hearing date. Masterson has also submitted a habeas corpus petition.
— ‘Lafayette Ronald Hubbard’ (a/k/a Justin Craig), aggravated assault, plus drug charges: Grand jury indictments include charges from an assault while in custody. Pleaded guilty on Nov 10 to a 17-year prison sentence (eligible for parole in two to three more years). Awaiting transfer to state prison.
— Aaron Matthes charged for SA of child under 12 years old: OT Scientologist facing multiple mandatory life sentences. Next pretrial court hearing set for March 9.

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, which is now fully briefed. Awaiting the setting of an oral arguments hearing.
— Baxter, Baxter, and Paris v. Scientology, alleging labor trafficking: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’
— Valerie Haney v. Scientology: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’ 15 days of arbitration completed, Val waiting for further word from the IJC.
— Chrissie Bixler et al. v. Scientology and Danny Masterson. Judge Upindra Kalra’s ruling denying Scientology’s motion to strike is on appeal. Appeal fully briefed. Motion to replace Jane Does’ AI-tainted brief denied by court. Oral arguments hearing on March 3.
— Jane Doe 1 v. Scientology, David Miscavige, and Gavin Potter: Case unsealed and second amended complaint filed. Scientology moves for religious arbitration. Trial has been set for January 10, 2028.

 
——————–

 
Other links: The prosecution of Danny Masterson. Leah Remini’s Fair Game Podcast. Leah Remini’s A&E Series. Scientology’s Celebrities, from A to Z. Bryan Seymour’s suppressed series, Scientology Black Ops: Tom Cruise and dirty tricks. Scientology’s Ideal Orgs, from one end of the planet to the other. Scientology’s sneaky front groups, spreading the good news about L. Ron Hubbard while pretending to benefit society. Scientology Lit: Books reviewed or excerpted in a weekly series. How many have you read?

 
——————–

THE WHOLE TRACK

[ONE year ago] Scientology’s plan is in jeopardy, and this is what Clearwater should keep in mind
[TWO years ago] Val Ross: When you’re a Scientology OT, and you have to fight cancer
[THREE years ago] PODCAST: Kate Bornstein is plugged into our Danny Masterson retrial coverage
[FOUR years ago] ‘Aftermath’ subject Liz Gale is sharing her Scientology experiences on TikTok
[FIVE years ago] Why is Scientology desperate for a tiny plot in Clearwater? Let us draw you a picture.
[SIX years ago] A look inside a Scientology org as it prepares to reopen for the public
[SEVEN years ago] Why the quarantine is such a fail: Scientology ship was set up as an interrogation factory
[EIGHT years ago] Scientology’s reclusive ‘president,’ 82-year-old Heber Jentzsch, tells a niece he’s doing fine
[NINE years ago] With its Mexico City project halted, Scientology fans out across town to promote its pablum
[TEN years ago] Ron Miscavige shakes off Scientology smears, rockets to #1 in ebooks
[ELEVEN years ago] Guest post: Five extreme examples of hypocrisy in Scientology’s ‘Freedom’ magazine
[TWELVE years ago] Falling death of a Russian Scientologist in Clearwater: The police investigation
[THIRTEEN years ago] How to Confront and Shatter Suppression, Scientology Style!

 
——————–

 
——————–

Posted by Tony Ortega on May 14, 2026 at 07:00

E-mail tips to tonyo94 AT gmail DOT com or follow us on Twitter.

Our book with Paulette Cooper, Battlefield Scientology: Exposing L. Ron Hubbard’s dangerous ‘religion’ is 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, 1995-2024 Just starting out here? We’ve picked out the most important stories we’ve covered here at the Underground Bunker (2012-2024), The Village Voice (2008-2012), New Times Los Angeles (1999-2002) and the Phoenix New Times (1995-1999)

Check your whale level at our dedicated page for status updates.

 

Tony Ortega at The Daily Beast

 

Tony Ortega at Rolling Stone

 TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: Former California Attorney General Xavier Becerra has surged in the polls to become the number one Democrat in the June 2 gubernatorial primary. But what does he have to say about his years as [...]]]>

 
TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: Former California Attorney General Xavier Becerra has surged in the polls to become the number one Democrat in the June 2 gubernatorial primary. But what does he have to say about his years as a Scientology booster and celebrity gladhander? We examine the record. [What is this Substack thing, anyway?]

 
——————–

Technology Cocktail

“When encountering an implant in a session, an auditor may be baffled by not getting any reads on it. BUT there IS a needle manifestation that no implant, no matter how buried, can escape. New research on this subject has revealed that: IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IMPLANT THE NEEDLE CAN GO STILL. This is because of the hidden and withhold character of the implant.” — L. Ron Hubbard, 1982

 
——————–

Source Code

“A special story I wrote was taken to the NY Times Reporter and she was very pleased. It was about the Marines and Corfu. Remember? We have to get the 19 crew members who wrote affidavits in this up to the US Embassy to get them notarized. They go to the US Congress and assist in the Life suit. (We have to get Life sued fast. The Sat Eve Post has gone out of business and Time-Life is fading. Like the Daily Mail, newspapers who attack us fail, strange coincidence.)” — L. Ron Hubbard, May 13, 1969

 
——————–

Avast, Ye Mateys

“GROUP CONFESSION is group confession. It is done with the whole group present. It is not done divisionally and it is not done by unit. Try this and you’ll see it work. This is a team and not individuated.” — Lt. Cmdr. Diana Hubbard, CS 1, May 13, 1969

 
——————–

Overheard in the FreeZone

“I have seen the dark energy and dark matter. I have seen the other side of this universe, my hearing ability was magnified just before this happened. A thetan is capable of doing anything and can exist in the absence of MEST or in the dark form of it or in between. I am not sure if dark is the right word to use, however, this is magical indeed. Thank you Master LRH for your return. I wish I can express my gratitude for you in all the world alphabets, master, as you are the alpha (α) and omega (Ω).”

 
——————–

Past is Prologue

1997: Documents from L. Ron Hubbard’s file with the Coroner in San Luis Obispo were made available this week, showing the condition of Hubbard when he died. “The body of a tall white male said to have been in his 70’s. The body shows abundant reddish-white facial hair and eyebrows of reddish-white color. Scalp hair is long, thinning, receding at the forehead and of greyish-white color. Reddish-white body hair is present on the surface. Fingernails are long, unkempt. Nail beds are of bluish-red discoloration. Toenails are long, unkempt and there is bluish-red cyanosis present. The back is covered by livores. There is a bandaide affixed to the right gluteal area where 10 recent needle marks are recognized of 5-8 cm. There are no abnormalities upon inspection of the back. The body is without bruises or injuries or palpable masses.”

 
——————–

Random Howdy

“The world is disconnected because of technology, it turns people into zombies. A handful of corporations control all the the media, the arts, and what passes for popular culture these days. What happened to rock’n’roll? It’s been replaced by no talent moop thugs who can’t play an instrument and can’t write lyrics above the 4th grade. There is no more rebellion. They’ve won. It’s ‘Tittytainment’ from here on out. Detroit has gone bankrupt and the corporations are going to run the city. Didn’t they make a movie about that 20 years ago?”

 
——————–

Full Court Press: What we’re watching at the Underground Bunker

Criminal prosecutions:
— Danny Masterson charged for raping three women: Sentenced to 30 years to life on Sep 7, 2023. Appeal now fully briefed, waiting for 2nd Appellate District court to set a hearing date. Masterson has also submitted a habeas corpus petition.
— ‘Lafayette Ronald Hubbard’ (a/k/a Justin Craig), aggravated assault, plus drug charges: Grand jury indictments include charges from an assault while in custody. Pleaded guilty on Nov 10 to a 17-year prison sentence (eligible for parole in two to three more years). Awaiting transfer to state prison.
— Aaron Matthes charged for SA of child under 12 years old: OT Scientologist facing multiple mandatory life sentences. Next pretrial court hearing set for March 9.

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, which is now fully briefed. Awaiting the setting of an oral arguments hearing.
— Baxter, Baxter, and Paris v. Scientology, alleging labor trafficking: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’
— Valerie Haney v. Scientology: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’ 15 days of arbitration completed, Val waiting for further word from the IJC.
— Chrissie Bixler et al. v. Scientology and Danny Masterson. Judge Upindra Kalra’s ruling denying Scientology’s motion to strike is on appeal. Appeal fully briefed. Motion to replace Jane Does’ AI-tainted brief denied by court. Oral arguments hearing on March 3.
— Jane Doe 1 v. Scientology, David Miscavige, and Gavin Potter: Case unsealed and second amended complaint filed. Scientology moves for religious arbitration. Trial has been set for January 10, 2028.

 
——————–

 
Other links: The prosecution of Danny Masterson. Leah Remini’s Fair Game Podcast. Leah Remini’s A&E Series. Scientology’s Celebrities, from A to Z. Bryan Seymour’s suppressed series, 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] Visualizing how a surprising no vote from Clearwater affects Scientology’s plans
[TWO years ago] L. Ron Hubbard’s tallest tale? When Scientology’s founder first struck gold
[THREE years ago] Not surprisingly, Scientology opposes an appeal in the Baxter trafficking case
[FOUR years ago] ‘Top Gun: Maverick’: The only movie review you need if you’re being honest about Tom Cruise
[FIVE years ago] Tom Cruise said he needed only an hour to sell Scientology: What would he do in that hour?
[SIX years ago] Scientology trying to sell Irish reporters on the idea that interest is booming there
[SEVEN years ago] Scientology admits it’s selling ‘magic’ at its Florida spiritual mecca
[EIGHT years ago] We have the detailed specs for your dream job: Public Relations officer in Scientology
[NINE years ago] Scientology’s casting calls get nuttier all the time. Who would you hire to fill them?
[TEN years ago] Document leak: How Scientology freaked out over losing Lori Hodgson and her mom
[ELEVEN years ago] Hand out L. Ron Hubbard literature and score a date with a Scientology sweetheart!
[TWELVE years ago] DOX: The appeal to restore the class-action lawsuit against Scientology’s rehab network
[THIRTEEN years ago] Will Scientology’s Motion Demolish the Garcias’ Federal Fraud Lawsuit?

 
——————–

 
——————–

Posted by Tony Ortega on May 13, 2026 at 07:00

E-mail tips to tonyo94 AT gmail DOT com or follow us on Twitter.

Our book with Paulette Cooper, Battlefield Scientology: Exposing L. Ron Hubbard’s dangerous ‘religion’ is 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, 1995-2024 Just starting out here? We’ve picked out the most important stories we’ve covered here at the Underground Bunker (2012-2024), The Village Voice (2008-2012), New Times Los Angeles (1999-2002) and the Phoenix New Times (1995-1999)

Check your whale level at our dedicated page for status updates.

 

Tony Ortega at The Daily Beast

 

Tony Ortega at Rolling Stone

 TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: Danny Masterson’s habeas petition attorney claims there’s new evidence of a ‘Brady violation,’ meaning that a prosecutor held back information at trial that might have convinced the jury of the Scientology celebrity’s innocence. What’s [...]]]>

 
TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: Danny Masterson’s habeas petition attorney claims there’s new evidence of a ‘Brady violation,’ meaning that a prosecutor held back information at trial that might have convinced the jury of the Scientology celebrity’s innocence. What’s the new evidence? We have the details. [What is this Substack thing, anyway?]

 
——————–

Technology Cocktail

“An implant is an enforced command or series of commands installed in the reactive mind below the awareness level of the individual to cause him to react or behave in a prearranged way without his ‘knowing it.’ There are several methods of implanting… PAIN – DRUG – HYPNOSIS: Using administered pain, drugs and hypnotism the psychiatrist, psychologist and other criminals such as CIA or other government agents, seek to cause victims to become robots and commit crimes or act in an irrational way. ‘PDH’ is the psychiatrists’ gift to the police state. PDH is not very effective but it is very damaging to the person. ” — L. Ron Hubbard, 1982

 
——————–

Source Code

“All I’m trying to do here is show you that the most hidden factors of the mind were, of course, the things that aberrated the mind, because nobody has ever freed a mind before. So therefore, they must have been the most concealed or they would have gotten as-ised. Just as simple as that, see? Almost anybody could have come along and as-ised them if they hadn’t been very hidden. ” — L. Ron Hubbard, May 12, 1961

 
——————–

Avast, Ye Mateys

“RHODESIA: The anti-Scn bill in Rhodesia hit a heavy snag due to our attorney, the legal office of the government chopping down on their parliament saying its unconstitutional. The name of a notorious anti-govt psychiatrist appeared and got the govt legal dept antagonistic. Also, I had excellent PR in Rhodesia when I was there and they’re still trying to explain their actions. The Guardian Office Africa and all concerned did a fine job there. It’s all held off indefinitely.” — The Commodore, May 12, 1971

 
——————–

Overheard in the FreeZone

“When media wanted me to adjust to the rules of a radical feminist society, with alcoholism and political correctness and gay propaganda — a free field for psychiatry and antidepressants — I chose to stay home and become a Scientologist.”

 
——————–

Past is Prologue

1996: Karin Spaink posted an update to the lawsuits filed in The Netherlands concerning the large number of web pages containing the Fishman version of the OT documents. Following the victory in court that allows the pages to remain in place, the cult has continued its efforts. “Scientology has appealed this judgment, as they are wont to do. Their Motion of Complaints was filed earlier in April. Today, our lawyer has filed his reply. The date for the court session has been set: it’s June 18, 14.00. The case will be brought before three judges, a so-called ‘multiple court’ (meervoudige kamer). It is not known how long these three judges will take to study the file and to pronounce judgment.”

 
——————–

Random Howdy

“I wouldn’t sweat it. I’ve been doing this since 2008 and I’ve given vaLLarrr and other Scientologists more than enough clues as to who my sister is that if they wanted to dox me and come after me they could have long ago. All they got left is squirrel cams, fat sleazy P.I’s and slime sites that no one reads except other Scientologists.”

 
——————–

Full Court Press: What we’re watching at the Underground Bunker

Criminal prosecutions:
— Danny Masterson charged for raping three women: Sentenced to 30 years to life on Sep 7, 2023. Appeal now fully briefed, waiting for 2nd Appellate District court to set a hearing date. Masterson has also submitted a habeas corpus petition.
— ‘Lafayette Ronald Hubbard’ (a/k/a Justin Craig), aggravated assault, plus drug charges: Grand jury indictments include charges from an assault while in custody. Pleaded guilty on Nov 10 to a 17-year prison sentence (eligible for parole in two to three more years). Awaiting transfer to state prison.
— Aaron Matthes charged for SA of child under 12 years old: OT Scientologist facing multiple mandatory life sentences. Next pretrial court hearing set for March 9.

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, which is now fully briefed. Awaiting the setting of an oral arguments hearing.
— Baxter, Baxter, and Paris v. Scientology, alleging labor trafficking: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’
— Valerie Haney v. Scientology: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’ 15 days of arbitration completed, Val waiting for further word from the IJC.
— Chrissie Bixler et al. v. Scientology and Danny Masterson. Judge Upindra Kalra’s ruling denying Scientology’s motion to strike is on appeal. Appeal fully briefed. Motion to replace Jane Does’ AI-tainted brief denied by court. Oral arguments hearing on March 3.
— Jane Doe 1 v. Scientology, David Miscavige, and Gavin Potter: Case unsealed and second amended complaint filed. Scientology moves for religious arbitration. Trial has been set for January 10, 2028.

 
——————–

 
Other links: The prosecution of Danny Masterson. Leah Remini’s Fair Game Podcast. Leah Remini’s A&E Series. Scientology’s Celebrities, from A to Z. Bryan Seymour’s suppressed series, 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] Leaked document: How Scientology handled a journalist’s uncomfortable questions
[TWO years ago] On Mother’s Day 2024, the moms who suffer and defy Scientology’s cruel ‘disconnection’ policy
[THREE years ago] Legal battle for the ages to unfold this morning at the Danny Masterson retrial
[FOUR years ago] Trafficking lawsuit: In Scientology, the tables turn quickly on abusers and the abused
[FIVE years ago] Scientology’s Chicago Ideal Org says it’s next to open. Is Second City ready for its closeup?
[SIX years ago] Scientology’s $20 million hole in the ground: The secret vault to nowhere
[SEVEN years ago] Scientology finds the dream solution to its recruiting woes — the QR Code!
[EIGHT years ago] Scientology’s toxic policy of ‘disconnection’ — we check in with the people who endure it
[NINE years ago] One of Scientology’s most secretive temples is offering a rare look inside on Monday
[TEN years ago] Monique Rathbun formally ends her lawsuit in Texas; Ken Dandar wins again in Florida
[ELEVEN years ago] AUDIO LEAK: Scientology leader David Miscavige ‘makes L. Ron Hubbard out to be an imbecile’
[TWELVE years ago] Scientology is determined to conquer this Internet thing
[THIRTEEN years ago] Scientology Sunday Funnies: Portland Is Now Cleared, On to the Rest of Earth!

 
——————–

 
——————–

Posted by Tony Ortega on May 12, 2026 at 07:00

E-mail tips to tonyo94 AT gmail DOT com or follow us on Twitter.

Our book with Paulette Cooper, Battlefield Scientology: Exposing L. Ron Hubbard’s dangerous ‘religion’ is 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, 1995-2024 Just starting out here? We’ve picked out the most important stories we’ve covered here at the Underground Bunker (2012-2024), The Village Voice (2008-2012), New Times Los Angeles (1999-2002) and the Phoenix New Times (1995-1999)

Check your whale level at our dedicated page for status updates.

 

Tony Ortega at The Daily Beast

 

Tony Ortega at Rolling Stone