TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: More evidence of how tight Tom Cruise remains with Scientology: the big donors he invited to the ‘Digger’ premiere in Los Angeles. ALSO: Save the Garden has met its goal as its petition is [...]]]>

 
TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: More evidence of how tight Tom Cruise remains with Scientology: the big donors he invited to the ‘Digger’ premiere in Los Angeles. ALSO: Save the Garden has met its goal as its petition is certified valid! [What is this Substack thing, anyway?]

 
——————–

Technology Cocktail

“There has never before in the history of the world been an opportunity for groups, since they did not know these things, to rehabilitate themselves and free themselves from the continuing concatenation of arbitraries. Thus, every group, once initiated, could thereafter experience only a dwindling spiral. Following these tenets, there is no reason why the tone of the group cannot continuously rise or, whenever it is depressed, to be brought back up on the tone scale again. It has been stated by past writers that the group’s highest point was the moment when it was formed, since then its ideals, ethic and rationale were intact. One can readily see that this has in the past been the case, but he can see also that the ideals, rationale and ethic of the group may be improved. Thus its tone scale can now go up from this point of formation. Further, emergency status’s can be reached and met, individuals can take command of various functions of the group for these emergency status’s, and the engrams of the group can thereafter be sorted out and resolved—run, in other words.” — L. Ron Hubbard, 1951

 
——————–

Source Code

“Have you ever run a sperm sequence? It doesn’t have any energy in it either but it has all the energy there is in it. Have you ever seen anybody lying on the couch in the sperm sequence, and seen his feet start to swing sideways in an impossible motion? He says, ‘What am I doing?’ The energy which is generating that was of the magnitude necessary to wiggle the tail of something which is only visible in a microscope. And yet this fellow is wiggling his whole body on this tiny, tiny amount of energy.” — L. Ron Hubbard, October 10, 1951

 
——————–

Avast, Ye Mateys

“The Sea Org proper was begun with Flag Order No. 1, 12 August 1967. On about that date the ‘Avon River’ was launched in Las Palmas. FO 639 gives 9 Oct 67 as the ‘proper’ beginning as it then had a function. But 12 Aug would be its real birthday.” — The Commodore, October 10, 1970

 
——————–

Overheard in the FreeZone

“I would have to say I was quite neurotic and numb from many years of drug use and alcohol. I took a personality test and read Dianetics and found why I had asthma and allergies for most of my childhood years. That compelled me to dedicate my life more and more to study, first as a public and then on staff. I made gains every step of the way. There is so much to learn and study and big actions to address your case. First the ability to study and detox off drugs and alcohol with a Purification Rundown. You can choose how you learn but for me I dedicated intense study and case handling by joining staff and for 10 months completely studied and twinned up with others to learn practical training. I guess some are afraid to look into their minds and traumas in life. Scientology is a discipline to learn how to study clear words and to become more intelligent. I know it is the reason I love to help others now. I became a much better individual and ethical and now also I know I can learn any subject I choose to and my interests in life have expanded greatly. It is a Science.”

 
——————–

Past is Prologue

2000: The Salt Lake City Tribune reported that U.S. Senator Orrin Hatch made comments in favor of Scientology’s efforts to discredit European countries for their efforts against cults. “Today, as democracies are born while people watch on worldwide television, it is important to guard religious freedom, Sen. Orrin Hatch told delegates to a symposium at BYU’s law school Sunday night. Hatch told delegates from 36 countries, including China, Mongolia and Iran, that the job of ensuring those freedoms is far from done — even in industrialized countries such as France. ‘Developments in France have been particularly troubling because one would expect France to be one of the leaders on a human-rights issue,’ Hatch said. But in ‘June of 1995, the French National Assembly established a parliamentary inquiry commission charged with ‘studying the sect phenomenon’ in the country. The French Senate will soon consider legislation that would ‘create a dangerously broad weapon for fighting unpopular religious groups,’ he said. Germany has also limited religious freedom, Hatch said. In Germany, the controversial Church of Scientology, founded by science fiction writer L. Ron Hubbard and embraced by a number of Hollywood celebrities, has endured discrimination by the government.”

 
——————–

Random Howdy

“I lived through 70’s Punk, early 80’s hardcore, late 80’s alternative, and whatever passed for a scene in the first half of the 90’s, and most of my friends from those time periods are dead. But at least they had some really good times before their number came up. I don’t think Scientologists can say the same.”

 
——————–

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, oral arguments scheduled for June 25. 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. Now serving time in 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 June 19.

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. Oral arguments hearing set for July 23.
— 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 upheld on appeal. Scientology expected to file additional petitions before case can return to Kalra’s court.
— 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 opens Silicon Valley ‘Ideal Mission’ — where it already has ‘Ideal Org’
[TWO years ago] As Scientology whistleblower Hana Whitfield braced for Milton, she had news for us
[THREE years ago] Biggest protest since Anonymous era planned for Scientology leader’s return to England
[FOUR years ago] The case against Danny Masterson: Details from the prosecution brief on the eve of trial
[FIVE years ago] Tom Cruise, looking puffy again between movie shoots, gets booed at SF game
[SIX years ago] Read the prosecution’s smackdown of Danny Masterson’s attempt to get out of rape charges
[SEVEN years ago] Nancy Cartwright tops $17 million as Scientology celebrates its whales
[EIGHT years ago] Scientology’s cruise ship the Freewinds: Why OT 8 needed to be delivered off-shore
[NINE years ago] Here’s how Scientology tried to keep you from seeing tonight’s episode of ‘Leah Remini’
[TEN years ago] One of Scientology’s new Narconons got inspected — and turned up one surprising result
[ELEVEN years ago] Another minor omen of the coming Scientology apocalypse appears in Florida
[TWELVE years ago] Vance Woodward’s lawsuit dismissed as judge grants Scientology’s anti-SLAPP motion
[THIRTEEN years ago] OOPS: Government Shutdown Stalls EEOC Lawsuit Against Miami Scientology Chiropractor

 
——————–

 
——————–

Posted by Tony Ortega on October 10, 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, 1995-2025 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, Alex Barnes-Ross learned that the mayor of East Grinstead will not be going to Scientology’s big UK event this year: A sign that his hard work is paying off? ALSO: A fine documentary [...]]]>

 
TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: Yesterday, Alex Barnes-Ross learned that the mayor of East Grinstead will not be going to Scientology’s big UK event this year: A sign that his hard work is paying off? ALSO: A fine documentary about Scientology gets a new home. [What is this Substack thing, anyway?]

 
——————–

Technology Cocktail

“A group is composed of Theta and MEST. It has an analytical mind and a reactive mind. The Theta in the group consists of the ideals, rationale and ethic of the group. The MEST of the group consists, not of the minds, but of the bodies of the individuals of the group and the property and space and time owned by the group. The analytical mind consists of the adjudicated, fully comprehensive opinion of all the members of the group and their efforts and actions to activate and run this group. The reactive mind of the group could be considered to lie in the actions of those individuals set up for emergency status during emergency status, which is to say, the reactive mind is composed of the composite engrams of the group. The group will grow and prosper only insofar as it lacks engrams. It should not fear engrams; it should only fear the fact that the engrams may not be processed and run.” — L. Ron Hubbard, 1951

 
——————–

Source Code

“Anderson, Q.C., Melbourne inquiry. Complete gibbering psychotic idiot. Up to the gills with R-6. ‘Scientology must be wrong, because we cannot explain where all the new bodies come from. All the new spirits. Where would all the new spirits come from if everybody had a spirit, why, where would all the new spirits come from, huh?’ Actually, what he didn’t realize, this silly ass — he was disproving Catholicism. Catholicism claims there’s one spirit per body, so he was asking some silly little kid question that is asked of his own religion, Catholicism. And yet he was busy hanging Scientology because it couldn’t… You get the irrationality of it? The man occupies a perfectly valid position. He’s looked on. He’s a Queens’ consulate. Actually he’s just a gibbering idiot. You probably couldn’t even catch him to get a straight jacket on him.” — L. Ron Hubbard, October 9, 1968

 
——————–

Avast, Ye Mateys

“SECURE THE PORT: We are very popular in this port. Were publicized heavily before arrival. Snap up the PR. Get out your white uniforms for watches and good clothes for the beach. Make a splash here. We’ll be here 3-4 days and will push to make it heavy PR.” — The Commodore, October 9, 1970

 
——————–

Overheard in the FreeZone

“I did some paranormal abilities training before knowing about Scientology. I remember one of the first paranormal detections I did many times about Scientology: I detected that it would degrade and degenerate; but I didn’t expect it would happen so soon. I’m glad that even though the Church of Scientology has been degraded, there are people outside the church doing sane and good Scientology.”

 
——————–

Past is Prologue

1999: An affidavit by Scientology leader David Miscavige was posted to a.r.s this week. It was filed in the Wollersheim case, in which Lawrence Wollersheim is attempting to have Scientology pay a multi-million dollar judgment, even after bankrupting the Church of Scientology of California. Some excerpts: “A great deal has been made of my role and authority in the Scientology religion because of my position as RTC’s Chairman of the Board. Let me emphasize that I am not ‘Chairman of Scientology.’ It is RTC, as a whole, that is responsible for the orthodoxy of the Scientology faith. It then follows that as Chairman of RTC, its most senior executive, I am entrusted with the ecclesiastical position that has the highest scriptural authority within the religion. My authority derives exclusively from that position and extends no further than RTC’s mission. In summary, my job is to ensure RTC carries out its function of assuring the orthodox and proper use of the Scientology religious ‘technology.’ My duties are completely unrelated to, and I do not participate in, the ecclesiastic governance of the many churches of Scientology around the world. That function is performed by Church of Scientology International. As Chairman of RTC, I am not the ‘successor’ to L. Ron Hubbard. Plaintiff attempts to mislead the Court regarding Mr. Hubbard’s and my role in the religion. Mr. Hubbard was the Founder of the religion and the sole Source of its Scripture. In that capacity, he will never have a ‘successor.’ A primary and fundamental doctrine of our faith is that the teachings be kept pure and that the only source of those teachings is Mr. Hubbard. When plaintiff and his witnesses say I am ‘just like L. Ron Hubbard,’ that is the highest compliment one could receive in the Scientology religion, if their intention were to communicate that I am keeping the religion true to his teachings. Of course, their statements are accompanied by an inaccurate and negative description of Mr. Hubbard’s character and role in the religion. But even if that were not the case, I would still reject their compliment as I simply am not and never will be what Mr. Hubbard was to the religion. By way of analogy, consider an apostate Roman Catholic claiming, in the context of litigation, that the Pope is ‘just like Jesus Christ, and assumed his role after Christ’s death.’ Needless to say, this would be offensive to any Roman Catholic, as a matter of religious belief. The Pope may be the keeper of the Roman Catholic faith, but it would be heresy to say he was, in any manner, Christ himself. I do not disregard the corporate lines of authority, responsibility or control of any church of Scientology. Contrary to the allegations of Wollersheim’s declarants, lines of corporate authority in RTC, and its relationship to other churches of Scientology, are firm and I see to it they remain that way. Because of these allegations, the IRS review of RTC and all other churches of Scientology, had as a primary focus of investigation the corporate and financial integrity of those churches. After the most exhaustive review of any non-profit organization in history, the IRS found such allegations to be without basis, not only with respect to Mr. Hubbard’s relationship with the churches of Scientology when he was alive, but with respect to the relationship and integrity of all Scientology churches since that time. Most offensive to me are the allegations that I or any church has taken any steps to harass the plaintiff or his witnesses. It is I and others in the Scientology religion who have been, and currently are being harassed in the most despicable manner possible. I am aware that as a member of a new and minority religion, what I am experiencing is nothing new in history. Indeed, any prominent member of society is subject to attack and scrutiny. As such, I do not respond to every allegation or threat leveled at me. If I did, it is highly likely I would spend my entire life responding to charges such as those in this case. One of the most frequent and most inflammatory allegations civil litigants have made is to allege that ‘Fair Game’ is being practiced today on the basis of what the GO did in the 1970’s, dredging up their illicit activities and falsely ascribing them to those responsible for the GO’s eradication. Since 1981, 1 have heard allegations of ‘Fair Game’ at least a thousand times, but I had never heard the term in my life until I encountered it in civil litigation. To this day, I have never heard the term used inside the church. No real Scientologist would ever condone or even consider such conduct. Wollersheim, along with his declarants, has resorted to making such generalized ‘Fair Game’ allegations by falsely ascribing GO-like conduct to the people who are responsible for ridding Scientology of the GO. He has done so not for the purpose of substance, as there is none to such allegations, but rather for the purpose of stigmatizing my religion and me. As a final outrage, Wollersheim’s attorneys – Charles O’Reilly and Leta Schlosser – allege that I threatened them in the courthouse elevator. The exact circumstances are these: While waiting by the elevator, I was
standing with another Scientologist. Mr. O’Reilly and Ms. Schlosser were accompanied by a very large body guard. When the elevator doors opened, I stood waiting for Ms. Schlosser to enter first, out of common courtesy. O’Reilly’s body guard said loudly, ‘Let the midget go first,’ in reference to my size (56″). 1 ignored his comment and rode down the elevator in silence. This incident was memorable to me given the circumstances of having just heard Mr. O’Reilly speak about my religion in the most offensive manner possible and about what a victim his client was due to church ‘abuse’ and having those claims followed almost at once by the
astounding act of rudeness I have just described. This case is not merely about Larry Wollersheim attempting to collect a judgment he achieved against CSC. The instant action is brought as part of his anti-Scientology crusade. Wollersheim, acting through FACTNet Inc., his corporation which supports anti-Scientology litigants, has engaged in a pattern of virulent attacks directed at me by exploiting a hate-filled, anti-Scientology Internet news group. I give but just a small sampling of some of this harassment: The anti-Scientology Internet news group – ‘Alt Religion Scientology’ (ARS), was created with a posting to which my name was forged as the author. In 1993, I was accused, in a case in which I was not even a party, of having murdered my mother-in-law. The coroner established that the death was not a homicide. The personal impact of such an outrageous lie was immense for both my wife and me. In 1997, as part of his defense of the FACTNet litigation, Wollersheim accused me of having murdered Mr. Hubbard to obtain control of his Estate and the churches of Scientology. He attempted to contact Mr. Hubbard’s family, telling them that they had been deceived by me into giving up their legacies since Mr. Hubbard donated his copyrights and wealth to the religion. This was not
only harassment of me, but of Mr. Hubbard’s widow and children who remain devout Scientologists. Yet Wollersheim, a well known Scientology hater purports to care about their husband and father’s legacy. Wollersheim’s financial backer, Robert Minton, has posted my face on the Internet for use as target practice, has threatened to burn me in effigy in front of church buildings, and, spurred on by Minton, other anti-Scientologists then spoke of ‘forgetting the effigy and just doing it
for real.’ Prince has protested in front of our spiritual Mecca, threatening ‘Tell David I’m coming with a dick so big I’m gonna knock his goddamn spine out.’ Wollersheim has repeatedly threatened to have me sent to prison and his attorney announced the formation of a club to have church leaders ‘buggered [sodomized] before breakfast’ every day.”

 
——————–

Random Howdy

“This place is nuts, but not half as nuts as YouTube. It’s just a little bit more serious and astute and friendly.”

 
——————–

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, oral arguments scheduled for June 25. 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. Now serving time in 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 June 19.

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. Oral arguments hearing set for July 23.
— 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 upheld on appeal. Scientology expected to file additional petitions before case can return to Kalra’s court.
— 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] LRH 2.0 tells ‘Expedited Scientology’ fans he’s mulling 17-year plea deal
[TWO years ago] All the Scientology allowed by Riley Keough in her mother Lisa Marie Presley’s ‘memoir’
[THREE years ago] It’s spooky season, and Scientology doesn’t want to miss out on the recruiting opportunity!
[FOUR years ago] How a major Scientology donor family is caught up in the Danny Masterson case
[FIVE years ago] He was Scientology ‘I/C’ — ‘in charge’ — of Paulette Cooper’s harassment. And now he’s dead.
[SIX years ago] SCIENTOLOGY BLACK OPS, Episode 10: Bryan Seymour wraps up his series axed by Seven News
[SEVEN years ago] CLEARWATER APOCALYPSE! No, not really. But let’s help Scientology run its new board
[EIGHT years ago] What it was like last night at Scientology’s Los Angeles TV ‘season’ premiere party
[NINE years ago] BLOCKBUSTER EXCLUSIVE: It turns out the National Enquirer is blowing smoke again
[TEN years ago] EXCLUSIVE: Recent deaths of Scientology rehab staffers points to ongoing problem
[ELEVEN years ago] The Scientology-Ireland connection that propelled Cathriona White to Hollywood
[TWELVE years ago] Ryan Hamilton files two more federal lawsuits against Scientology’s drug rehab network
[THIRTEEN years ago] Anonymous and Craigslist: Proof that Scientology Knows It’s Under Attack

 
——————–

 
——————–

Posted by Tony Ortega on October 9, 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, 1995-2025 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: We love a good Scientology hype video, and we have 2 of them for you today as staffers do their best to get the beleaguered rank and file to quickly make plans to come [...]]]>

 
TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: We love a good Scientology hype video, and we have 2 of them for you today as staffers do their best to get the beleaguered rank and file to quickly make plans to come to England for the IAS gala. ALSO: ‘Digger’ is a flop, but not to Scientologists! [What is this Substack thing, anyway?]

 
——————–

Technology Cocktail

“Here then is the cycle of a group receiving an engram: the group ideas and rationale in handling or attacking MEST receive a shock from the MEST which it is attacking, making an emergency situation exist. There is a turbulent area created between the ideals and rationale of the group and the MEST. The emergency status of the situation has to do with the compressed time—something obviously is happening so swiftly that a full use of communication is not possible and must be supplanted by arbitrary rules or commands. As soon as the emergency is over, it can be seen that an engram has been implanted in the group.” — L. Ron Hubbard, 1951

 
——————–

Source Code

“These memory recordings aren’t passed along from cell to cell. They could be, but they are not stored as electrical energy. You start examining this any way you want to and you will find that there isn’t an energy in the physical universe — at least which we know about — which has a small enough wavelength to store memory recordings. Oddly enough, this was a discovery I made in 1932 when I was in atomic and molecular physics at George Washington University. I made an exhaustive study of the matter. There aren’t wavelengths small enough; physical scientists would know that. The boys fooling around in medicine would not know it because they don’t know the laws of energy, and as a consequence they have postulated, as the best postulates which they can offer, that memories are stored in punched protein molecules. That is cute!” — L. Ron Hubbard, October 8, 1951

 
——————–

Avast, Ye Mateys

“The cholera shot knocked quite a handful down. They’re mostly well again. Those not trained in Scientology possibly don’t realize one has to decide to be ill before one does. One can also decide to be well. Those off duty on MO lines are also off allowances and bonuses. Doc Robinson is cleaning up a lot of lifetime cycles. She’s a whiz at it. She’s looking for volunteers for a health food diet just sent in by a former Ship’s Rep.” — The Commodore, October 8, 1970

 
——————–

Overheard in the FreeZone

“This planet is hungry for help, peace and tolerance. When Christianity came along and offered that in a barbaric and cruel world it grew like mad. Scientology, with its unbelievable tech to help, spread like wildfire. As Ron pointed out Christianity made the huge mistake of becoming intolerant and attacking others. And our Church under DM has become utterly intolerant and attacks people of goodwill. DM has joined the ranks of the WFMH and any government allies of naming us, real Scientologists who are helping others, as his enemies! SPs do not want others to be helped! We are very fortunate to have the full tech of helping others and the full tech of spotting and handling those who would stop us helping others.”

 
——————–

Past is Prologue

1998: A report was posted to a.r.s this week on Scientologists in the court reporter industry. “Atkinson-Baker Court Reporters are the laughing stock in the court reporting industry. They can’t keep any experienced reporters on staff because as soon as the reporters learn how little they are getting per page for their transcripts, they blaze out of there. Another interesting thing that is happening is one of the temporary agencies, like AppleOne or Remedy Temp, is now coming into play in the reporting industry. They are Scientologists as well. What they are doing is handling depo situations just like sending a temporary worker out and they are massively undercutting everyone’s rates. I can’t believe that some reporters will actually work for $1.80 a page. Our CSR Board can exercise no control over them whatsoever. They can’t fine them or pull their licenses because they aren’t even court reporters. That’s why so many grassroots efforts have come about with reporters trying to get legislation on our state books prohibiting non-CSR’s from owning court reporting agencies. If that can’t be done, the industry for the most part is doomed, because of the continued rate cutting done by the Scientologists. The Scientologists are also going directly to the insurance companies and establishing contracts with them to provide all their court reporting services, but at a reduced rate. This, in fact, then places the court reporter in a very unusual position by making her seem as though she is no longer a non-biased person, since the company she is working for has a direct contract with the insurance company.”

 
——————–

Random Howdy

“Not all of us are rich enough to afford cable and some of us think it’s a wasteland.”

 
——————–

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, oral arguments scheduled for June 25. 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. Now serving time in 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 June 19.

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. Oral arguments hearing set for July 23.
— 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 upheld on appeal. Scientology expected to file additional petitions before case can return to Kalra’s court.
— 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 blasts lawyers for Masterson victims in AI fiasco, wants sanctions
[TWO years ago] Scientology ham hock Grant Cardone lambasted for suggesting gov’t sent Hurricane Milton
[THREE years ago] Before the IAS gala returns to England, here are photos secretly taken at the 2012 event
[FOUR years ago] PODCAST: Mirriam Francis is thriving since defying Scientology’s code of silence
[FIVE years ago] Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard’s cosmos: An ancient battlefield shot through with ‘psychs’
[SIX years ago] The Top 25 People Enabling Scientology, No. 13: Google and other tech titans
[SEVEN years ago] Scientologists will face trial after judge cites ‘sophisticated fraud’ scheme
[EIGHT years ago] With Scientology TV premiering a new ‘season’ tonight, David Miscavige is having a moment
[NINE years ago] Guelph quest: Scientology sets up temporary shop in Canadian town and faces stiff opposition
[TEN years ago] Atack: The forgotten history of disproving Scientology’s status as a “religion”
[ELEVEN years ago] For some reason, news sites are keeping quiet about who found Cat White’s body. So here he is.
[TWELVE years ago] EXCLUSIVE: Scientology didn’t want you to see this letter it sent to the San Francisco Chronicle
[THIRTEEN years ago] William S. Burroughs and Scientology: Setting the Record Straight

 
——————–

 
——————–

Posted by Tony Ortega on October 8, 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, 1995-2025 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: We go way back with attorney John P. Coale. We first wrote about his Scientology involvement (along with his wife, Greta Van Susteren) back in 2015, and he talked to us for a story [...]]]>

 
TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: We go way back with attorney John P. Coale. We first wrote about his Scientology involvement (along with his wife, Greta Van Susteren) back in 2015, and he talked to us for a story about Lisa Marie Presley. And now, the White House has a big new role for him! [What is this Substack thing, anyway?]

 
——————–

Technology Cocktail

“Seventh Dynamic. Theta. This is the dynamic towards the preservation of the body of energy sometimes called God . . . call it anything you want to, there is that something which man has always striven toward. He has a certain faith that he becomes imbued with and which makes it possible for him to do things that he never would have dreamed of doing before. To a boy whose life is all wrapped up in electronics and who is sitting on the edge of a cyclotron, God may well be a cyclotron. To an author, God might be a book, and to a mechanic God might seem to be a very fine racing car. But these would be rather short-sighted views for each individual.” — L. Ron Hubbard, 1951

 
——————–

Source Code

“How do you run a grief charge? Take him to the beginning of the moment when the incident first occurred….This goes way back on the track to a thing called, evidently, the Weeper — salt water. And for about half a million years man was having a hell of a time trying to rush into the waves long enough to get some food and rush back to get some air. And he didn’t have anything with which to rush. And it was, and it was very frustrating. So frustration winds up in spilling salt water. He had a couple of little tubes and he pushed these out of the shell and he’d pump like mad trying to pump out all the salt water. You run a preclear on this and it’s just fabulous.” — L. Ron Hubbard, October 7, 1953

 
——————–

Avast, Ye Mateys

“Persons on Festival posts must report back to former status and post. They will be assigned further by the ED 140 FAO Mission, Ens David Mayo in some instances. This mission, David Mayo and Andrea Sibirsky, has the job of phaseover. Help him all you can.” — The Commodore, October 7, 1971

 
——————–

Overheard in the FreeZone

“Recently I blocked a woman because she was using plain Black Scientology on me. I felt quite relaxed after blocking her.”

 
——————–

Past is Prologue

1997: Keith Henson reported attention from Scientology private investigator Eugene Ingram this week. “A report has our favorite wanted-in-Florida felon actively dead agenting me to the other Alcor board members today. Most of them have known about this SP hobby of mine for a long time because I briefed them about it, and various things they should expect over a year ago. But Gene managed to get to one who had been out of the country at that time, and laid the usual DA material on him, making the slightly amusing claim that I had made one of my daughters pregnant. The funniest thing about all of this is that the guy Gene talked to is a board certified psychologist.”

 
——————–

Random Howdy

“I had a dream I was L. Ron Hubbard and I was wearing a cape, sitting on a throne, with a bevy of teenage beauties sitting at my feet.”

 
——————–

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, oral arguments scheduled for June 25. 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. Now serving time in 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 June 19.

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. Oral arguments hearing set for July 23.
— 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 upheld on appeal. Scientology expected to file additional petitions before case can return to Kalra’s court.
— 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 now tells members to save Oct 24 or 31 for big tent party
[TWO years ago] Can Scientology’s OT’s deflect Hurricane Milton headed right for its HQ?
[THREE years ago] PODCAST: Trish Conley and her sister Liz on how Scientology destroyed their family
[FOUR years ago] Olmedo Rules: Details of the court’s decision on Scientology in Danny Masterson’s case
[FIVE years ago] Scientology OT, after having scam shut down, tests the waters for a comeback
[SIX years ago] First look at ‘Brothers Broken,’ a Scientology documentary that features the Bunker
[SEVEN years ago] As Scientologists face another day in L.A. court, we have a bizarre twist to the case
[EIGHT years ago] Exploiting Tony Bourdain’s suicide or giving out weird massages, Scientology never rests
[NINE years ago] Scientology is hacked off that Luis Garcia and attorney will appear on ‘Leah Remini’
[TEN years ago] What’s the worst that can happen when you sue Scientology? Here’s one frightening example.
[ELEVEN years ago] A secret Scientology wake, a ‘Snow White’ link, & more odd twists emerge in the Cat White story
[TWELVE years ago] Comedy gold: Mark Ebner catches Scientology cheating with Sarah Silverman
[THIRTEEN years ago] U.S. SUPREME COURT DENIES SCIENTOLOGY IN FORCED-ABORTION LAWSUIT

 
——————–

 
——————–

Posted by Tony Ortega on October 7, 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, 1995-2025 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 has finally revealed the date of its annual IAS anniversary gala. Tom Cruise has flown in for the past three years and we expect he will again. And Alex Barnes-Ross has his own [...]]]>

 
TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: Scientology has finally revealed the date of its annual IAS anniversary gala. Tom Cruise has flown in for the past three years and we expect he will again. And Alex Barnes-Ross has his own plans for the party! [What is this Substack thing, anyway?]

 
——————–

Technology Cocktail

“Cleared, unless one has been operated upon and had part of his brain removed or burned out by a psychiatrist or accident, the various recalls and all data ever recorded will return to you in their entirety. In Dianetics it is possible to recover the full force of the inherent dynamics in the mind and all computational ability. Thus, if you start for clear, keep a log of your dianometry. It is a system of approximations, just as the mind evaluates and computes on approximations. But, used by a human mind, it will make sense.” — L. Ron Hubbard, 1951

 
——————–

Source Code

“Little boy is a kick. My little girl requires interest to be kind of generated by the vicinity. You know? It’s got to be heavy matter and that sort of thing. She’d get interested. Yes, she’s very alert and very interested. But this little boy, her brother, is practically an Operating Thetan. And he is a fabulous little character — not just because he’s my son, of course — but he’s a fabulous character in that he’s always exteriorized. You walk past his room — his door is closed, you see — in the middle of the night and he’ll do a flip-flop on his bunk, bang! and he’ll be right up there scratching on the door saying, ‘Hey, say hello,’ you know, that sort of thing. You open the door and say, ‘Hello, Quentin,’ and he’s real happy.” — L. Ron Hubbard, October 6, 1954

 
——————–

Avast, Ye Mateys

“FAN MAIL: Items which bring in nice comments and congratulations lately have been Expanded Lower Grades and the Data Series. Numerous pleased comments came in on Expanded Lower Grades with no adverse ones. The Data Series gets good comment and is well liked. It has run into only a couple of adverse where the Out-points restimed some out-points but by auditing them straight it came out great. Hymn of Asia is also very popular.” — The Commodore, October 6, 1970

 
——————–

Overheard in the FreeZone

“I know that jewish dna tends to produce more 1.1s, but that doesnt mean we are going to single out a whole group of people as being 1.1 and that we should be racist or anything, the free zone is open to all and sadly the atlantean/aryan race is full of bad bodies too, i think its better than other bodies but sadly here on earth all bodies are bad for the thetan and we need to empower the thetan and ignore the corrupted bodies.”

 
——————–

Past is Prologue

1996: Hud Nordin reported a second appearance of the Scientology Chicken on the Conan O’Brien show. “The famous Scientology Chicken, Johnson, made his second appearance on NBC’s Conan O’Brien show. The plot was about the same, the animated chicken is invited out to entertain the kids and fails to do anything but harp on L Ron Hubbard, Dianetics and scientology. This time, when pressed, Johnson’s aborted attempt at a story was about a boy named Tom, and a girl named Nicole, and a pie made out of… scientology berries!”

 
——————–

Random Howdy

“Man, my groovy shark vid got no votes, but my simple-minded off-the-cuff remark got top vote. You people are weird.”

 
——————–

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, oral arguments scheduled for June 25. 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. Now serving time in 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 June 19.

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. Oral arguments hearing set for July 23.
— 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 upheld on appeal. Scientology expected to file additional petitions before case can return to Kalra’s court.
— 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] Hit superhuman level in Scientology? Time to pat yourself on the back, thetan
[TWO years ago] VIDEO: You know what your problem is? You’re not Scientology trained!
[THREE years ago] Philadelphia freedom: Scientology proves that it never gives up on brotherly love!
[FOUR years ago] With a trial looming, here’s what it’s like to go up against Scientology’s code of silence
[FIVE years ago] Scientology’s evangelist is coming to town, and he wants to discuss your origin, thetan
[SIX years ago] Danny Masterson’s attempt to get out of rape accusers’ lawsuit to be heard today
[SEVEN years ago] For you doubters, here’s proof of Scientology miracles that demonstrate the power of ‘OT’!
[EIGHT years ago] In the Sea Org, under suspicion: ‘I accepted that I was, in Scientology terms, an ethics particle’
[NINE years ago] This new image of David Miscavige makes years of Scientology Watching all worth it
[TEN years ago] Chris Shelton dives into Scientology culture with the Larisa Smith story, part two
[ELEVEN years ago] CATHRIONA WHITE WAS MARRIED TO SCIENTOLOGIST MARK BURTON
[TWELVE years ago] A Bunker Exclusive: Jonny Jacobsen’s 2008 book introduction describing Scientology
[THIRTEEN years ago] Sunday Funnies: Scientology’s Shiny New Freedom Magazine!

 
——————–

 
——————–

Posted by Tony Ortega on October 6, 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, 1995-2025 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 is boasting on social media that it scored a major celebrity endorsement recently, and it’s such a rare occurrence, you can understand the church’s excitement. ALSO: What if you finally reach Scientology’s highest [...]]]>

 
TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: Scientology is boasting on social media that it scored a major celebrity endorsement recently, and it’s such a rare occurrence, you can understand the church’s excitement. ALSO: What if you finally reach Scientology’s highest level and never want it to stop? [What is this Substack thing, anyway?]

 
——————–

Technology Cocktail

“To compute your dynamics evaluate on the basis you have desired to change or benefit one dynamic’s field or another. If you want to change yourself, that’s a fairly long One; if you get angry about sex or children, that may mean an average Two; if you are promiscuous, that is a badly blocked but a highly active Two. If you want to run clubs or change clubs or abolish clubs, that’s a high Three. If you think it’s dumb worrying about atom bombs, Dynamic Four is not only blocked; it probably is infinitely short in the first place.” — L. Ron Hubbard, 1951

 
——————–

Source Code

“The most serious barrier that an auditor has to overcome in Security Checking is not necessarily his own case, but a courage in asking . . to ask the questions. You know, that’s kind of a raw, mean, brassy sort of a thing to do. You sit down. Here’s this nice young girl. Everybody knows she’s a virgin. Everybody knows this. And you’re in very good ARC with her and everything is going to go along fine. And then you say to her, crassly and meanly, ‘Have you ever committed any carnal sins of any character or another? Have you ever been to bed in the wrong place at the wrong time with the wrong man?’ And put it mildly, this is a startling question. But since I’ve started security checking, I haven’t found any virgins.” — L. Ron Hubbard, October 5, 1961

 
——————–

Avast, Ye Mateys

“The LRH Comm Correction Form will be used on any flagrant departures from the standard scene. Not only is it a sign of hat-dump if data is withheld on the grounds that a question is Dev T, it is also a sign of gross hat-dump if the LRH Comm is involved in an excessive amount of running around to get straightforward data. Any action that is Dev T is of course handled as such, and rightly. Getting data is NOT Dev T. Co-ordination requires co-operation.” — LRH Pers Comm, October 5, 1971

 
——————–

Overheard in the FreeZone

“You can’t measure time in years to another universe, it’s another universe outside the time reference of this universe. So basically incident zero occurs in this universe and that’s it. It’s out-ethics to evaluate incidents to run. The processes quite simply run a person into a network of implant stations which programs people into cycles of action operating across the entire tone scale.”

 
——————–

Past is Prologue

1995: An announcement from the Cult Awareness Network was posted this week. Cynthia Kisser reported on a loss in a civil suit to Scientology lawyer Kendrick Moxon, representing Jason Scott, accusing CAN of kidnapping. “A jury verdict was delivered September 29 in U.S. District Court in Seattle, following a six-day trial. Scott was represented at trial by Kendrick Moxon, a minister with the Church of Scientology International, a long time adversary of CAN that had tried unsuccessfully to win dozens of lawsuits against CAN in the past. Moxon was an unindicted co-conspirator in the federal investigation of Scientology in the seventies that lead to the felony convictions of 11 of its high-ranking members, including Mary Sue Hubbard, the wife of Scientology founder the late L. Ron Hubbard. Federal judge John Coughenour refused to let CAN introduce any evidence concerning Scientology into the case, but permitted Scott, over CAN’s objections, to include inflammatory language about CAN’s alleged role in criminal deprogramming. CAN executive director Cynthia Kisser attended the trial and concluded, ‘Scientology used Jason Scott to make false claims to a jury about CAN in an effort to further their well-publicized vendetta to destroy CAN because of its effectiveness in making the public aware of Scientology’s ruthless tactics. The judge’s pre-trial rulings did not permit the jury to learn the truth about Scientology’s part in the litigation, but Scott was not prevented from introducing Scientology’s assertions to the jury about CAN’s alleged involvement in criminal deprogramming.'”

 
——————–

Random Howdy

“It will take a Snowball of Theta to save the planet from the Hairball of Entheta that is growing bigger in Basement Cat’s belly by the day.”

 
——————–

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, oral arguments scheduled for June 25. 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. Now serving time in 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 June 19.

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. Oral arguments hearing set for July 23.
— 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 upheld on appeal. Scientology expected to file additional petitions before case can return to Kalra’s court.
— 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 early sci-fi fanzines dunking on L. Ron Hubbard and ‘Dianetics’
[TWO years ago] Scientology leader can sit out while Freewinds trafficking case goes to arbitration
[THREE years ago] Scientology whines in court again, and this time we’re the direct beneficiaries
[FOUR years ago] Prosecution plans to call Lisa Marie Presley as witness at Danny Masterson rape trial
[FIVE years ago] US Supreme Court denies Valerie Haney; CA court gets letters on Scientology’s ‘neutrality’
[SIX years ago] SCIENTOLOGY BLACK OPS, Ep 9: Director Paul Haggis responds to a lawsuit’s rape allegations
[SEVEN years ago] Fight Scientology, and you can end up paying the price for years and years
[EIGHT years ago] Buried in US archives, a stunning indictment of Scientology and prediction of the future
[NINE years ago] Never before seen: Video of a woman moments after achieving superhuman Scientology powers
[TEN years ago] DRONE FLYOVER: Scientology’s secret saucer-looking underground vault in Northern California
[ELEVEN years ago] VIDEO LEAK: Scientology’s New Year’s Eve 2006, when Leah Remini was still a front-row celeb!
[TWELVE years ago] Sunday Funnies: Scientology wants your child, even if it’s not yet born!
[THIRTEEN years ago] Claire Headley Gets Us Prepped for Scientology’s OT Levels!

 
——————–

 
——————–

Posted by Tony Ortega on October 5, 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, 1995-2025 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: Now that we’ve seen Tom Cruise’s new film ‘Digger,’ we think we can discuss the stunning thing that he does in it in regards to his choices about Scientology while still not spoiling the [...]]]>

 
TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: Now that we’ve seen Tom Cruise’s new film ‘Digger,’ we think we can discuss the stunning thing that he does in it in regards to his choices about Scientology while still not spoiling the movie. This is really what he should answer to, if anyone dares to ask him. [What is this Substack thing, anyway?]

 
——————–

Technology Cocktail

“The demon circuit is any circuit that vocalizes your thoughts for you. That’s not natural. It’s an installed mechanism from engrams and it slows up thought. Sometimes people have two or more demon circuits, which is to say, they have ‘voices’ which advise them: they talk to themselves inside their heads and answer themselves. Sometimes they have demon circuits that talk out loud at them. Demon circuits mean in any case, a rather high degree of aberration.” — L. Ron Hubbard, 1951

 
——————–

Source Code

“I don’t know whether parts of the body will rebuild or not. Auditors have hazarded that and they’re working on it. They’re trying to figure it out, trying to get the third tooth to grow where a tooth’s been pulled, trying to get this to happen and that to happen and trying to get a finger to grow, something like that. People’s limbs have lengthened two, three, four inches; their spines have lengthened, their height’s grown. And I’ve seen places on the body fill in where chunks had been pulled out. But I haven’t seen a whole limb grow, or I haven’t seen half a limb grow, I mean, and complete itself and be a full limb again. I don’t know. Possibly something to do with structural pattern or the bud or something has to be implanted along the line or something. One of these days we’ll find out what that is and then we’ll all have two heads.” — L. Ron Hubbard, October 4, 1953

 
——————–

Avast, Ye Mateys

“FESTIVAL: The GREAT PEANUT RACE is the next major event of the Festival! The three lowest hour auditors in the last five days will engage in a death defying race pushing each a peanut around the entire circle of the Prom Deck amid the cheers of the multitude. The Contestants should be equipt with knee pads and gloves. Three peanuts must be provided of suitable size with spares in case of a track crack up.” — The Commodore, October 4, 1971

 
——————–

Overheard in the FreeZone

“Some folks said that LRH never conceived of the Internet. Well, he was still alive when computer networks were already in existence, and governments had sent digital transmissions across the country long before that. So why would LRH announce future communications technologies when those concepts had already been in the scope of design since the 60s? So Berners-Lee came up with something practical along that line around the late 80s. Where do some people think LRH came up with the term ‘Terminal’ from? Does he need to get more specific?”

 
——————–

Past is Prologue

2001: An e-mail to Scientologists described the opening of the new mission in San Francisco, SOMA, or South of Market. “The Mission is located in a 3 story building on Mission Street in SF, between 5th & 6th streets. I would estimate 500-600 people were on hand. The city had allowed the Mission to close one lane on Mission Street and a podium had been set up on the sidewalk. Cindy Feshbach opened the ceremony with a speech about Scientology and about the Mission. We had major media coverage including a camera & interview team from Entertainment Tonight. Also there was a Golden Era Productions crew getting all the theta. Cindy presented SF Police Department Captain Tony Perra with a plaque which contained on it a pledge from the Mission and from Scientology to assist the SF police and the city to help it with its problems. Captain Perra gratefully accepted the plaque and publicly pledged the SF police department’s support of the Mission in its humanitarian endeavors. Next to speak was none other than Mr. David Miscavige, Chairman of the Board RTC. He gave an incredibly inspiring speech about how Scientology has the solution to the problems of society and the world. This was really a dissemination speech because he knew we were getting major media coverage. He read some awesome LRH quotes about war and ended his speech with a statement that the real enemy of man was the Reactive Mind. His presence is awesome. Next to speak was Jenna Elfman, who has sponsored the Mission. She spoke of her devotion to the arts, to San Francisco, and of her sincere desire to help the people of this beautiful city. As part of her speech she announced that along with the opening of the Mission, a Children’s Center for the Arts had been established in the basement of the building, fully equipped with a stage, ballet facilities, and others so that any children of the SF area could come there and learn/practice arts for free. By the way, SF org is getting a new building I can’t say much about it yet but it is happening.”

 
——————–

Random Howdy

“J&D is hard. Anybody can write something serious and emotional and get all the upvotes. We comedians are the true artistes.”

 
——————–

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, oral arguments scheduled for June 25. 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. Now serving time in 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 June 19.

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. Oral arguments hearing set for July 23.
— 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 upheld on appeal. Scientology expected to file additional petitions before case can return to Kalra’s court.
— 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 & the Feds: Why the church is celebrating despite news of an SEC probe
[TWO years ago] Michele Fiore guilty on all counts, and Scientology link proven at trial
[THREE years ago] Why Scientology’s reclusive leader would risk re-emerging in England for the IAS gala
[FOUR years ago] Prosecution plans to call 1996 victim in Danny Masterson trial
[FIVE years ago] Is this a list of all of Scientology’s active subsidiary corporations that a tipster fed us?
[SIX years ago] Scientology once again confirms our estimates for its tiny size
[SEVEN years ago] For $100, Scientologist sorcerer will share secret of living to 150 (and we have the secret!)
[EIGHT years ago] Scientology has its whales — and now the Underground Bunker does too!
[NINE years ago] Is Scientology’s notorious prison detail — the ‘RPF’ — a thing of the past?
[TEN years ago] Pam Bondi thrills at Scientology’s mecca, Hungarian TV bends over, & other updates
[ELEVEN years ago] Meet the young Hollywood types who introduced Cathriona White to Scientology
[TWELVE years ago] Jon Atack: How to talk to a Scientologist to plant the seeds of doubt
[THIRTEEN years ago] WORLD PREMIERE: The Shrinking Cult of Scientology, A Video By Tiziano Lugli

 
——————–

 
——————–

Posted by Tony Ortega on October 4, 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, 1995-2025 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: Clearwater’s city council voted on Thursday night to vacate streets for an entertainment complex associated with Scientology, which packed the chamber again to make opposition more difficult. We asked Mark Bunker for his thoughts [...]]]>

 
TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: Clearwater’s city council voted on Thursday night to vacate streets for an entertainment complex associated with Scientology, which packed the chamber again to make opposition more difficult. We asked Mark Bunker for his thoughts about this latest development. [What is this Substack thing, anyway?]

 
——————–

Technology Cocktail

“In the case of Genghis Khan, potential value was very great. His ability to think and power to initiate and execute were very high. On the first dynamic his actual worth was exceptional. On his second dynamic his potential value was extremely high but the worth was shortened by the precarious heritage he left his many children. On his third dynamic his worth was enormous for he unified not only his personal race unit but consolidated into it other units which had been at mutual war on the steppes. On the fourth dynamic, Mankind, his worth was so far negative that it not only wiped out all gains in the first three dynamics but made the total worth of the man more negative than any other for centuries around him. Into the equation which was Genghis Khan might have been added artistic or beneficial knowledge for the world had they been present and these might even have overweighted the equation back into positive worth, but Genghis Khan initiated and contributed no such thing.” — L. Ron Hubbard, 1951

 
——————–

Source Code

“The Roman Catholic Church, somewhere along the line, through watching the dramatizations of people, picked up some little fragments of R6, and they make it look like it’s continued forward into present time. But the truth of the matter is that the loyal officers were not all killed. Xenu missed. And they were not all killed. Not by a long way…Somebody, somewhere on this planet, back about 600 BC, found some piece of R6. And I don t know how they found it, either by watching mad men or something, but since that time they have used it and it became what is known as Christianity. The man on the cross. There was no Christ, but the man on the cross is shown as every man so of course each person seeing a crucified man has an immediate feeling of sympathy for this man. Therefore you get many PCs who say they are Christ.” — L. Ron Hubbard, October 3, 1968

 
——————–

Avast, Ye Mateys

“Cmdr. Hana Eltringham is welcomed aboard. She is assigned to Deputy CS-1 and to part time study her FEBC. An Aides hat should be provided but other aides should groove her in. She has been CS-1 and CS-4 before. The Flag Org is full throttle getting trained up to FEBC and handling existing traffic and should be concentrating soon on Org Bd Hats for orgs, its overdue assignment. We are very glad to see some Veterans back to Flag.” — The Commodore, October 3, 1970

 
——————–

Overheard in the FreeZone

“Personally I think that there has been a coordinated effort by certain factions in the Government for reasons of ‘National Security’ to invalidate the state of OT at least publicly and that the Church currently is playing along in this game. It is my opinion that the success of the Remote Viewing Project scared the bejesus out of them and now there is an ongoing effort to put the Genie back in the bottle. But that is my opinion and I can’t prove it. Though what I can pretty much prove is that the Church has now veered away from those abilities covered in the earlier lectures on the State of OT. For instance the original OT IV if run correctly will produce a Thetan Exterior, V and VI give the thetan familiarity with operating outside of the body. Yet these levels are no longer part of the Bridge. Why is that? There is no HCOB or Policy that canceled those levels yet they are no longer considered part of Church doctrine. Omitted levels is a definite out point. One big enough to drive not just a Sherman Tank but a few very large semis through.”

 
——————–

Past is Prologue

2000: Battlefield Earth opened in Australia this week. The Canberra Times published this article: “For 15 years, Travolta has tried to get Battlefield Earth before the cameras. It’s a slam-bang sci-fi epic set 1000 years in the future. But more tellingly, it’s a film based on the writings of L. Ron Hubbard, the founder of Scientology. Travolta is a Scientologist, the most famous one on earth. But even though Tom Cruise, Chick Corea, Jenna Elfman, Kirstie Alley and several other celebrities share that with him, most of Hollywood does not. And faith isn’t enough to get a movie on the screen. ‘I didn’t have the clout to get it made,’ Travolta says. But clout wasn’t the only problem. There was the script. ‘It was a long time in the making, mostly because I didn’t finally get [the script] right until recently,’ he says. ‘A year and a half ago, we got a version of the script that tackled the book and did it justice.’ Then there were the special effects. Hubbard’s action-packed novel features gigantic aliens, futuristic technology and battles, battles everywhere. ‘I don’t think, if we’d done this book 15 to 20 years ago, the special effects would have measured up to what we were able to do,’ Travolta says. ‘Now, they’re state of the art, realistic. This was just the right time to make this film.’ But, of course, he’s leaving out the obvious hold-up to Battlefield Earth. Hubbard invented Scientology, the controversial self-help religion that has been under fire for decades for its expense to its followers, its medical claims and the intimidation tactics its leaders use to quash dissent and bad publicity. Battlefield Earth is a movie with a lot of baggage. Could anti-Scientology bias have kept Hollywood from making the film? ‘Quite the opposite,’ Travolta says. ‘It’s so many people’s favourite book, when word got out that we had the green light, the options I had for people who wanted to work on it were amazing. Travolta has, from time to time, distanced himself from the church, which uses fasting, counseling and a gadget called an e-meter to help its practitioners purge toxic substances and toxic forces from their lives. But he’s never dodged questions about it. ‘He doesn’t push Scientology,’ says George Thomas, film critic for the Akron Beacon-Journal, who has interviewed Travolta several times. ‘He charms you into understanding his position and tries to make you respect what he believes.’ Something of a compendium of Hubbard’s sci-fi writings recast in a new story, Battlefield Earth did earn some good reviews when the novel came out in 1982. But some critics have said the sales figures were inflated by Scientologists buying multiple copies, a Donald Trump trick for creating a best-seller. Richard Leiby, writing in the Washington Post, sees the book and film as a metaphoric treatment of Hubbard’s philosophy, that psychology and psychiatry are the root of modern evil – the villains of the piece are the ‘psychlos’. But any suggestions of a link between the film and Scientology draw swift rebukes from the church leadership.”

 
——————–

Random Howdy

“I was just watching a documentary about ISIS, and they put out a monthly magazine and annual report (400 pages long) that is way more slick and professional than anything I’ve seen by the unchurch of Lientology. Even the crazy jihadis have their act more together than Scientology.”

 
——————–

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, oral arguments scheduled for June 25. 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. Now serving time in 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 June 19.

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. Oral arguments hearing set for July 23.
— 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 upheld on appeal. Scientology expected to file additional petitions before case can return to Kalra’s court.
— 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] When the evil psychs secretly paid for information about Scientology!
[TWO years ago] Alex reports: Scientology is loading up pols with propaganda to ban protests
[THREE years ago] Indie Scientologists after their protest: We want to hear from church members about abuses
[FOUR years ago] Scientology eagerly uses Hurricane Ian devastation for photo opportunities
[FIVE years ago] Pasadena drunk kicks hole in Scientology door: Will this ‘hate crime’ be blamed on Leah Remini?
[SIX years ago] STUNNING LEAK: Scientology’s entire asset portfolio the year it got IRS church status
[SEVEN years ago] Scientologist removed from L.A. court again after screaming at judge in fraud hearing
[EIGHT years ago] Jesse Prince talks about the grieving after L. Ron Hubbard’s death — and the partying
[NINE years ago] Rerun Tuesday: ‘Leah Remini’ participants tell us what the series has meant to them
[TEN years ago] L. Ron Hubbard in exile: When Scientology’s leader ran things while on the lam
[ELEVEN years ago] ‘Going Clear’ Q&A: Mike Rinder and Sara Goldberg take heat from Scientologists
[TWELVE years ago] What VICE magazine got wrong about Scientology in the UK
[THIRTEEN years ago] LIVE FROM TAMPA: The Garcia v. Scientology Federal Fraud Lawsuit Mini-Trial!

 
——————–

 
——————–

Posted by Tony Ortega on October 3, 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, 1995-2025 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: ‘Digger’ opens wide today, and once again we’re privileged to have a review from our longtime friend and film critic, Luke Y. Thompson, who appreciated that Tom Cruise swung for the fences, even if [...]]]>

 
TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: ‘Digger’ opens wide today, and once again we’re privileged to have a review from our longtime friend and film critic, Luke Y. Thompson, who appreciated that Tom Cruise swung for the fences, even if the movie never seems to get where it wants to go. [What is this Substack thing, anyway?]

 
——————–

Technology Cocktail

“THE DYNAMICS ESTABLISH THE PERSISTENCY AND VIGOR OF THE MIND AND ORGANISM. Measurement of the dynamics is difficult and can be done at this time only on an arbitrary basis. Experiments have been outlined to be conducted to establish and identify Life Force which is, of course, the principal dynamic itself. The dynamics are widely variable because of aberrations which obstruct them. In the dianetic clear, the dynamics are free of mental obstruction and are found to be much stronger. Mental and physical exhaustion tests on aligned—freely chosen—purpose establish the value of each of the four dynamics. The summed value gives a relative figure for any individual.” — L. Ron Hubbard, 1951

 
——————–

Source Code

“‘Be three feet back of your head.’ Please tell me why nobody ever said this in the last ump-thousand years. This is fantastic. Because 50 percent, at least, of the people who come in and sit down, I don’t care what their age is — something like this — you say, ‘Be three feet back of your head.’ Sometimes you get the reaction, ‘Why?’ ‘Well, it might be more comfortable outside.’ ‘Might be more comfortable outside! You mean people are inside their heads!’ You would be just amazed how often one gets that reaction. One girl I know was given 125 electric shocks because the psychiatrist found she was outside of her head. Too sane for him.” — L. Ron Hubbard, October 2, 1953

 
——————–

Avast, Ye Mateys

“This evening there will be a cocktail party aboard and 100+ top VIPs are expected as well as one very, very VIP person. The cocktail will be held in the main dining room and will as usual extend into the B Deck Foyer. Therefore body traffic into this area is to be kept to an absolute minimum. Male & Female occupants of B deck cabins are asked NOT to wander up the passageways and into toilets clad only in a towel during cocktail time. Remember that the VIPs will be using these heads. LAST REQUEST: Please try not to hang around the aft quarter deck or Prom decks during the cocktail — many of the guests will be taking a tour to the bridge at some time during the evening. As these requirements have been made publically known in the OODay, there will be no excuse for offenders, and I will take very strong action on any I find. Remember we are TOP EXECS of an INT BUSINESS MANAGEMENT CORP.” — Lt. N.F. Starkey, Captain, October 2, 1971

 
——————–

Overheard in the FreeZone

“Case in point was an LRH lecture where he found himself up in the Van Allen belt, so the Church of Scientology pulled it, telling Ted Koppel it’s no longer part of current Scientology to appease extant scientific data. With the more recent discoveries, are they going to reissue it? Same when LRH stated he nearly got run over by a train on Venus. No one is going to disagree there are no trains on Venus, but the lecture still nicely correlates and furnishes insight what goes with the case as LRH was about to unravel the implant data on the CC and OT II among other findings. To me, the lecture was a perfect delineation on the power of the case over one’s perceptions.”

 
——————–

Past is Prologue

1999: M. L. Shannon reported to a.r.s this week that a complaint has been filed against Copy Station, with four locations in the San Francisco area. “A few months ago, a formal complaint was filed with the State of California, Fair Employment and Housing Department, against Copy Station, Inc. a corporation that operates four photocopying shops. Three are in San Francisco and one is in Oakland. This complaint was preceded by a similar action filed several months earlier. In both of these complaints, allegations were made by the complainants, who stated that they are former employees of Copy Station, that they were subjected to racist remarks and insults, sexual harassment, age harassment, threats of physical violence, and pressure to attend various meetings and ‘rallies’ at the Church of Scientology. Within these complaints are allegations that certain employees or officers of the Copy Station corporation were heard to use terms such as ‘downstat’, ‘PTS’, ‘misduplicated’, ‘Org’, ‘stats’, and entheta’. It has been further alleged that Copy Station was and is being used as a recruiting center for the Scientologists.”

 
——————–

Random Howdy

“I’ve been in a ‘Is that all there is to Scientology?’ mood lately. It comes with the territory.”

 
——————–

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, oral arguments scheduled for June 25. 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. Now serving time in 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 June 19.

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. Oral arguments hearing set for July 23.
— 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 upheld on appeal. Scientology expected to file additional petitions before case can return to Kalra’s court.
— 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] New documents reveal Scientology’s earliest battles against naysayers
[TWO years ago] Scientology donor Rebecca Minkoff gets star turn as RHONY 15 begins
[THREE years ago] Scientology whines that the Jane Does leaked info worse than Tom Mesereau did
[FOUR years ago] Clearwater CEO Joy Gendusa recorded sychophantic video for Scientology’s leader
[FIVE years ago] Academics who ignore defectors as ‘apostates’ will never see Scientology for what it is
[SIX years ago] New in court docs: Scientology bashes victims’ rights group, trashes Mike Rinder
[SEVEN years ago] Scientologists led away in handcuffs after stunning evidence of fraud heard in L.A. court
[EIGHT years ago] Clear body, wiped mind: Another woman comes forward about forced abortion in Scientology
[NINE years ago] Another Scientologist becomes instant star with Trump supporters, this time in Puerto Rico
[TEN years ago] How Scientology plans to take over the world: By boring us to death, apparently
[ELEVEN years ago] An email that demonstrates how much Scientology loves going after the ‘evil psychs’
[TWELVE years ago] Q&A with Mike Rinder: Understanding the sudden changes at Scientology’s LA complex
[THIRTEEN years ago] FORMER SCIENTOLOGY SPOKESMAN TOMMY DAVIS SUBPOENAED BY MONIQUE RATHBUN

 
——————–

 
——————–

Posted by Tony Ortega on October 2, 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, 1995-2025 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 may be struggling to bring in new members, but it never stops trying to take over the world. We have two new examples for you today, a strip mall mission and a school [...]]]>

 
TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: Scientology may be struggling to bring in new members, but it never stops trying to take over the world. We have two new examples for you today, a strip mall mission and a school infiltration! [What is this Substack thing, anyway?]

 
——————–

Technology Cocktail

“In Dianetics we consider the worth of the individual to himself, to his group, to Mankind and posterity. With dianometry we are seeking to measure that worth. For these equations of worth, we use ability to think, power to execute and the vectors of purpose. Ability to think is more than intelligence. Intelligence would be the complexity of the mind in computation, its agility in the matter of perceiving, posing and resolving problems. The ability to think includes intelligence and the training, experience and data stored in the mind. The ability to think is not a structural potential of the mechanism but the actual capability of the experienced and stored mind.” — L. Ron Hubbard, 1951

 
——————–

Source Code

“We could bring people in off the streets and have them walk down the hall and stop in Office 1 where a little sign says, ‘Glasses removed here.’ We wouldn’t have any couches or anything cluttering the place up like that, and we could just walk them around the hall and at each station there would be another auditor and he would just ask standard questions. The people coming in would walk all the way around and then out on the street again. Of course, they would stop at the desk before they went out and write out a check for the equivalent amount of medical treatment, which would come to $8,687,962.05! There is some slight possibility that we may be at that stage. I don’t want to over evaluate anything, however.” — L. Ron Hubbard, October 1, 1951

 
——————–

Avast, Ye Mateys

“With only a third of the crew done Festival Stats have fallen. Immediate Emergency action was taken. A new threat is required according to the C/Ses. The three Highest Hours get a SPECIAL BONUS. The three with the Lowest Hours have to push a peanut with their nose the whole circle of the prom deck on Grand Ball Night and the one who loses the peanut race can only wear a sheet for the next 24 hours. Review Auditors are included.” — The Commodore, October 1, 1971

 
——————–

Overheard in the FreeZone

“Frankly, I don’t think ‘discussions’ about history or any other topic ever produce much of any value. Debate is vastly overrated as a way to come to realistic conclusions about anything. Discussion is fun and occasionally someone says something that makes you cognite about something. But it rarely resolves anything. Online discussions also have a value in knitting together a community. In our case, we can’t all descend on the corner bar and have beers together. Now I know of a variety of trained and reliable ‘with-LRH’ people. And hopefully more will follow. Because God knows, there are few enough of us out here as it is.”

 
——————–

Past is Prologue

1998: A hearing was held in the Dennis Erlich case this week. Keith Henson posted a report on the proceedings. “[I] came in with Carla Oakley doing a fine job on a number of points. One which stuck in my mind (because Judge Whyte ruled against me on it) was that the courts have held that you have to look at a larger picture than just a few pages which were copyrighted as a tiny unit of something larger, and that it has been held by the courts that sometimes fair use permits quoting the whole thing. There was considerable argument about deposing Mary Sue Hubbard. It looks possible that Judge Whyte may permit that. If so, it will have to be done fairly soon, because the pretrial conf was set for Dec. 18. The scns wanted a date after April, because Rosen is tied up in other cases till then. Dennis’ lawyers wanted one as soon as they could get it. They argued that the order Dennis is under greatly inhibits his ability to speak out against the abuses of scientology. Judge Whyte got very hot at this accusation, saying that that was not his intention. After the hearing, the judge called all the lawyers into chambers and imposed a settlement conference on them. Judge Whyte seems to have put the scns on notice that they have potential problems because of their abuse of Dennis’ civil rights when they got and then abused a civil search warrant they got from him– one which he later ruled was unconstitutional.”

 
——————–

Random Howdy

“The only place D.M. is taking his ass if the seat gets too hot is to Tahiti or the Russian Riviera. He’s a gangster, not a fanatic.”

 
——————–

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, oral arguments scheduled for June 25. 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. Now serving time in 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 June 19.

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. Oral arguments hearing set for July 23.
— 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 upheld on appeal. Scientology expected to file additional petitions before case can return to Kalra’s court.
— 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.

 
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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?

 
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THE WHOLE TRACK

[ONE year ago] Scientology’s plans run into ecological quagmire: Meet the Great Crested Newt!
[TWO years ago] The night Scientology’s celebrities shined, and he reached his limit
[THREE years ago] Scientology makes an exception for ABCMouse honcho, will hold memorial for Doug Dohring
[FOUR years ago] PODCAST: Jon Atack has some things to say about Mike Rinder’s new book on Scientology
[FIVE years ago] New evidence that private eyes stalking Leah Remini and J-Lo were working for Scientology
[SIX years ago] SCIENTOLOGY BLACK OPS, Episode 8: The secret Paul Haggis shared with the wrong person
[SEVEN years ago] Valerie Haney drops ‘Jane Doe’ label in brutal amended complaint against Scientology
[EIGHT years ago] Dispatches from our far-flung correspondents agree: Scientology still sucks
[NINE years ago] Scientology celebrates its disaster response in Florida, but struggles in Puerto Rico and Mexico
[TEN years ago] Atack: Scientology advocates serenity, so why are so many Scientologists angry jerks?
[ELEVEN years ago] Cathriona White’s Scientology ‘twin’ on grueling courses was an actor named Travis Case
[TWELVE years ago] Scientology’s drug rehab network hit with lawsuit number 22 by attorney Ryan Hamilton
[THIRTEEN years ago] RAY JEFFREY 1, SCIENTOLOGY 0: Disqualify Motion Denied in Harassment Lawsuit

 
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Posted by Tony Ortega on October 1, 2026 at 07:00

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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.

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