June 5, 2024 • 27 mins
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What if your peaceful hometown suddenly became the target of a covert invasion? Today, we uncover the shocking story of Clearwater, Florida, in 1975, where the Church of Scientology, led by L. Ron Hubbard, stealthily executed a takeover. We expose the shadowy tactics used to acquire key properties under the guise of the United Churches of Florida and the sinister plots against critics and opponents. Mayor Gabe Cazares’s brave resistance and the infamous FBI raids in 1977 reveal a town under siege and a community's fight for truth.
But that's just the beginning. We then delve into the meticulous planning behind Scientology's operations, spotlighting figures like Dick Weigand, Morris Moe Kahn, and Marty Rathbun. Discover the elaborate strategies of Operation Normandy and the deceptive property acquisitions that aimed to dominate Clearwater. Drawing from Pulitzer Prize-winning journalism, we unravel the relentless legal battles and the ultimate exposure of these covert activities. Join us for this intense narrative, as we bring to light how a tranquil town became the epicenter of a battle between secrecy and transparency.
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Sandi McKenna (00:00):
Picture this a serene coastal town in Florida,
its tranquil streets bathed inthe golden glow of the afternoon
sun.
The year is 1975, andClearwater, florida, seems like
the perfect slice of Americana.
But beneath its idyllic surface, a shadowy presence is quietly
weaving its way into the fabricof this community.
(00:22):
Way into the fabric of thiscommunity A series of mysterious
property acquisitions by anobscure group known as the
United Churches of Florida.
Locals whisper of strangevisitors and secretive meetings
held behind closed doors.
And as the sun sets, thewhispers grow louder and fear
begins to creep into the heartsof Clearwater's residents.
(00:43):
In this episode we delve intothe covert operations
orchestrated by Scientology,guided by L Ron Hubbard's
secretive directives.
His policy letters, filled withstrategies of infiltration,
intelligence gathering andrelentless legal battles, set
the stage for a silent invasion.
Consider this A town slowlywakes up to the realization that
(01:07):
it has been infiltrated.
Key properties, including thehistoric Fort Harrison Hotel,
are now under the control ofthis mysterious organization.
The local government, onceunsuspecting, finds itself under
scrutiny and pressure fromunseen forces.
Join us as we peel back thelayers of this real-life
thriller.
We'll explore the clandestinemaneuvers and hidden agendas,
(01:30):
from Operation Normandy'sdetailed planning to the
Guardian Office's chillingtactics, we'll uncover how
Clearwater became the epicenterof a battle between truth and
deception.
I'm Sandy McKenna and, alongwith Abraham Ulrich, welcome to
the Sins of Scientology.
Abraham Aurich (02:02):
In part one of our exploration into
Scientology's impact onClearwater, florida, we
uncovered the city'stransformation from a vibrant
coastal community to thesecretive global headquarters of
Scientology.
We detail Clearwater's charmingpre-Scientology era, the
historic significance of theFort Harrison Hotel and the
covert real estate acquisitionsthat marked Scientology's
(02:26):
arrival.
Mayor Gabe Cazares' courageousopposition in 1976 brought
national attention andhighlighted the church's
aggressive legal tactics.
We also discussed the 1977 FBIraids that exposed Scientology's
covert operations, the church's1980s PR efforts to improve its
(02:47):
image and the 1983 CityCommission resolution calling
for federal investigation.
Lastly, we examine theSandcastle Motel acquisition,
uncovering the church'sexpanding influence and the
community's persistent concerns.
In Part 2, we take a lingeringlook into the key players and
ongoing struggles in this saga.
(03:08):
What better way to begin thisepisode than with the words of
Scientology's founder himself, lRon Hubbard, and I quote Once
the world is clear, a nation, astate, a city or a village, the
Scientology organization in thatarea becomes its government,
and once this has taken place,the only policy accepted as
(03:29):
valid is Scientology's policy.
End quote.
Another interesting quote by LRon Hubbard Quote you want to
know what happens when you cleareverybody in that neighborhood.
The only thing thatScientology's center can become
used for is a political center,because by the time you've done
all this, you are government.
End quote L Ron Hubbard,january 9, 1962.
(03:52):
Now, those quotes are a bitchilling, but ridiculous
nonetheless.
Sandi McKenna (04:03):
No one has covered Scientology's takeover
of Clearwater more thoroughlyand compellingly than the
Pulitzer Prize-winning series bythe St Petersburg Times In late
1979, leveraging courtdocuments from a criminal case
against Scientology leaders,bette Swenson Orsini and Charles
Stafford of the Times examinedhow this insidious invasion took
place.
Their work earned them the 1980Pulitzer Prize for National
(04:24):
Reporting.
Let's rewind to December 5,1975.
On this day, the hierarchy ofScientology issued a chilling
directive titled Power Project 3Normandy.
The major target To fullyinvestigate the Clearwater city
and county area, identifyingallies and enemies and handling
(04:46):
them as needed.
This marked the beginning of acalculated and clandestine
operation.
Fast forward to January 26, 1976.
At this time, scientology wasstill masquerading in Clearwater
under the guise of the UnitedChurches of Florida.
On this day, a church officialnamed Joe Lisa concocted a
sinister scheme to get areporter, mike Sabelman, fired
(05:08):
from the Clearwater Sun.
His plan was as follows, and Iquote have an elderly woman go
into the office, overcome withgrief and hysteria, demanding to
see Sabelman's boss.
She would then accuse Sabelmanof sexually assaulting her son
or grandson, throwing a luridand perverted magazine in the
boss's face and threatening togo to the police if the pervert
(05:29):
Sabelman was not dealt with.
This malicious plot was just onepiece of a larger deceptive
strategy to infiltrate andcontrol Clearwater.
The church aimed to establishits headquarters in the city
through discreet and underhandedmeans, avoiding public and
governmental scrutiny at allcosts.
Documents reveal thatScientology came to Clearwater
(05:55):
with a specific agenda toestablish its program
headquarters, its school oftheology, in the Fort Harrison
Hotel and to gain control overthe city.
The United Churches of Floridawas created as a front to
protect church assets frompotential government seizure.
These documents also expose howthe church officials devised
and executed plots to discredittheir perceived enemies.
(06:16):
This included the mayor, whoquestioned their secrecy,
journalists who investigated andreported on Scientology, and
the editor and owner of thearea's largest newspaper, and
even local police departments.
They revealed that covertagents of the church infiltrated
local newspapers, communityagencies and law firms under
their employ to gatherintelligence and spy.
(06:38):
While I'm no theologian, Iquestion how this could be the
behavior of a legitimatereligious organization.
Abraham Aurich (06:47):
Milton Wolfe arrived in Clearwater in 1975 as
a spokesman for the UnitedChurches of Florida, a front
group for the Church ofScientology.
His role was part of a broaderstrategy by Scientology to
establish a presence and exertinfluence in Clearwater.
The United Churches aimed tomake alliances with local
(07:07):
religious and government leaders, but the organization's true
affiliation with Scientology wasrevealed by the investigative
journalists in early 1976.
Undermining these efforts, wolfwas involved in leading the
American Citizens for Honesty inGovernment, achg, another
Scientology front group.
This organization conductedinvestigations into various
(07:30):
local agencies and officials,attempting to eliminate what
they termed false reports aboutScientology.
Their activities includedprobing local hospitals for
alleged abuses and targetingvarious government agencies for
surveillance and pressure.
The activities of the AmericanCitizens for Honesty in
Government and other Scientologyfront groups in Clearwater
(07:52):
during the mid-1970s involvedseveral aggressive tactics aimed
at discrediting and pressuringlocal institutions and
individuals perceived asadversaries to Scientology.
Scientology operatives engagedin extensive surveillance of
local government offices,including the city commission,
the mayoral offices, cityattorneys, police departments
(08:15):
and planning and zoning boards.
Their goal was to uncover andeliminate what they consider
false reports aboutScientology's activities.
Documents indicated thatScientologists were even planted
within these agencies to ensurecompliance and gather
intelligence.
Groups like the Committee forthe Protection of Mental
(08:36):
Patients' Rights and otherScientology fronts conducted
investigations into allegedabuses at local psychiatry
facilities such as the AnclotePsychiatric Center and Horizon
Hospital.
These activities were framed asefforts to reform mental health
practices, but were part of abroader strategy to challenge
(08:56):
and discredit the psychiatryprofession, which Scientology
viewed as a significantadversary.
Scientology aimed to controllocal media to prevent negative
coverage and promote favorablenarratives about their
activities.
This included attempts toinfluence local newspapers and
other media outlets, and whenthese efforts failed, they
(09:16):
resorted to direct attacks andlegal challenges against
critical media entities.
The revelation of Scientology'sconnection to the United
Church's front group by localjournalists in early 1976 was a
significant setback for theseefforts.
As mentioned in Part 1, formerClearwater Mayor Gabe Caz, 1976
was a significant setback forthese efforts.
As mentioned in part one, formerClearwater mayor Gabe Cazares
was a notable target ofScientology's smear campaign.
(09:38):
Cazares, who was openlycritical of Scientology, faced
various forms of harassment andlegal challenges from the church
.
These efforts were intended tosilence critics and create a
more favorable environment forScientology's activities in
Clearwater.
The church utilized both legalmeans and covert operations to
achieve its goal.
This included filing lawsuitsto challenge unfavorable
(10:02):
decisions or to intimidateopponents, as well as engaging
in clandestine operations likeOperation Snow White, which
aimed to purge negativeinformation about Scientology
from government files worldwide.
Although primarily focused infederal agencies, elements of
these tactics were appliedlocally, in Clearwater as well.
Sandi McKenna (10:22):
In the covert operations of Scientology's
Clearwater takeover.
One name often whispered butrarely spotlighted is that of
Duke Snyder.
Often whispered but rarelyspotlighted is that of Duke
Snyder.
Snyder was an elusive figurewho was instrumental in the
intelligence-gatheringactivities crucial for the
church's successful infiltrationand control of this Florida
town.
His meticulous efforts ensuredthe secrecy and security of
(10:46):
Scientology's audacious plans,casting him as a shadowy puppet
mastermind behind the scenes.
Duke Snyder wasn't a mere footsoldier.
He was a strategic mastermindtasked with gathering critical
information and keeping thechurch's activities under wraps.
As the church set its sights onClearwater in the mid-1970s,
(11:08):
they knew that knowledge waspower.
Snyder's role was to obtainthat knowledge.
Operating with the precision ofa seasoned spy, he meticulously
scouted the landscape,identifying potential threats,
allies and opportunities.
His intelligence reports werethe lifeblood of Scientology's
clandestine operations.
Snyder's work often requiredhim to blend into the background
(11:30):
, a ghost among the living.
He cultivated a network ofinformants and allies who fed
him valuable information aboutlocal government operations,
business dealings and even thepersonal lives of key Clearwater
residents.
This network provided thechurch with the inside scoop it
needed to manipulate, maneuverand maintain an upper hand in
its takeover efforts.
(11:52):
One of Snyder's primary taskswas to ensure the veil of
secrecy over Scientology'sintentions.
This required a meticulouscover-up of their real estate
purchases and organizationalactivities.
Snyder orchestrated a series ofcorporations and front
organizations, each designed toobfuscate the church's
involvement.
These entities appeared benignand unconnected, but they were
(12:15):
all strings pulled by Snyder tokeep Scientology's true motives
hidden from prying eyes.
His methods were not justlimited to gathering
intelligence, they also involvedcounterintelligence.
Snyder was adept at identifyingand neutralizing threats to the
church's plans.
This meant discrediting localactivists, sowing discord
amongst opposition groups and,if necessary, deploying
(12:39):
intimidation tactics.
His operations created aclimate of fear and confusion
which stifled resistance andallowed Scientology to move
forward with its takeoverlargely unchallenged.
Duke Snyder's work was thebackbone of Scientology's
strategy in Clearwater.
His intelligence andcounterintelligence efforts
ensured that Scientology'soperations remained a step ahead
(13:02):
of their adversaries.
The success of the Clearwatertakeover can be traced back to
the shadowy figure of Snyder,whose cloak-and-dagger tactics
exemplified the dark side ofScientology's rise to power in
the unsuspecting town.
In the true crime saga ofScientology's Clearwater
conquest, duke Snyder remainsyet a key, enigmatic figure, a
(13:24):
master of espionage whosecontributions were pivotal in
turning the town into astronghold for the church.
Abraham Aurich (13:32):
Henning Heldt was a prominent figure within
the Church of Scientology duringthe 1970s, mainly known for his
role in the church's guardianoffice, responsible for the
church's intelligence and covertoperations.
Henning Heldt's backgroundincluded working closely with
high-ranking officials withinthe Church of Scientology.
He was notably involved in theChurch's efforts to protect its
(13:54):
interest and manage its publicimage, often through
controversial and covert means.
His involvement withScientology escalated when he
became the Deputy Guardian forthe United States, a senior
position within the Guardian'sOffice.
In this role, he oversawnumerous operations to safeguard
the Church's secrets and expandits influence.
(14:15):
One of Held's most notoriousactivities was his involvement
in Operation Snow White, aconspiracy orchestrated by
Scientology.
This operation aimed to purgeunfavorable records about
Scientology from governmentfiles.
Held, along with other seniorScientology officials,
orchestrated the infiltration ofvarious US government agencies,
(14:37):
including the IRS, to steal ortamper with records that were
detrimental to the church.
Held's activities eventuallyled to significant legal
repercussions.
In 1977, the FBI conducted oneof its most extensive raids on
Scientology offices inWashington DC and Los Angeles.
These raids aimed to uncoverevidence of the church's illegal
(14:57):
activities, especially thoserelated to Operation Snow White.
Held was among the key figurestargeted during these raids.
Subsequently, held was chargedand convicted of multiple crimes
, including conspiracy againstthe US government.
His conviction, along withthose other senior Scientology
officials, marked a significantmoment in the history of
(15:18):
Scientology's legal battles.
Henning Held's actions had aprofound impact on both
Scientology and the publicperception.
The exposure of Operation SnowWhite and the subsequent
conviction damaged the church'sreputation and highlighted its
willingness to engage in illegalactivities to promote its
interests.
These events also led toincreased scrutiny in legal
(15:40):
challenges against Scientologyin the years that followed.
Sandi McKenna (15:44):
Dick Weigand was a shadowy figure within the
Church of Scientology, known forhis pivotal role in the
Church's covert operations anddeeply involved in Operation
Normandy.
Weigand was a key player in theGuardian's office,
scientology's intelligence andespionage arm.
His job was not for the faintof heart.
(16:04):
It involved planning andexecuting covert operations to
protect and expand the church'sinfluence.
His name might not be as widelyknown as that of L Ron Hubbard
or Mary Sue Hubbard, but hisactions left a lasting imprint
on Clearwater.
His involvement in OperationNormandy was critical.
The operation was designed toinfiltrate and take control of
(16:26):
Clearwater discreetly.
Was designed to infiltrate andtake control of Clearwater
discreetly?
The ultimate goal To establishthe flag-land-based
Scientology's internationalspiritual headquarters without
arousing suspicion or resistancefrom the local community.
One of his strategies was usingfront organizations.
Under his guidance, scientologycreated the United Churches of
Florida, a seemingly benignentity that purchased the Fort
(16:49):
Harrison Hotel in 1975.
This hotel was to become thenerve center for Scientology's
operations in Clearwater.
He orchestrated theinfiltration of local government
offices and communityorganizations.
Under his direction,scientologists posed as members
of these organizations to gatherintelligence and influence
local decisions.
(17:10):
Wigand's meticulous planningensured that these operations
could collect crucialinformation about city officials
, journalists and anyone deemeda threat to Scientology's
ambitions.
He was instrumental in settingup surveillance operations.
His team monitored localofficials and critics,
collecting personal andprofessional data.
This information was used tomanipulate, discredit and
(17:33):
silence those who opposedScientology's plans.
Despite his careful planning,operation Normandy began to
unravel as the scale ofScientology's covert activities
came to light.
Raids led to a series ofindictments and Wigand found
himself ensnared in a legalfallout Alongside other
high-ranking Guardian's Officeofficials.
(17:54):
He was charged with conspiracyand obstruction of justice.
In 1988, he was convicted andsentenced to prison, and his
role in the Clearwater Takeoverwas now exposed to the world.
Dick Wigand's involvement inthe Clearwater takeover is a
stark reminder of the lengths towhich Scientology was willing
to go to establish its foothold.
(18:15):
His actions were part of abroader pattern of deception and
manipulation that characterizedthe church's operations during
this period.
Wigand's legacy is a cautionarytale of covert operations gone
awry.
His meticulous planning andexecution of Operation Normandy
initially succeeded in embeddingScientology into the fabric of
(18:36):
Clearwater.
Still, the subsequent exposureand legal repercussions
highlighted the dangers andethical breaches of such
clandestine efforts, of suchclandestine efforts.
Abraham Aurich (18:47):
Morris Moe Kahn, a pivotal figure in
Scientology's covert propertyacquisition strategy in
Clearwater, florida, operatedunder the radar, utilizing a
series of front organizations toachieve the church's ambitious
goal.
His involvement in Scientologybegan in the early days when the
church set its sights onestablishing a stronghold in
(19:07):
Clearwater.
Days when the church set itssights on establishing a
stronghold in Clearwater, kahnjoined Scientology in the early
1970s, aligning himself with thechurch's broader mission to
expand its influence throughstrategic real estate purchases.
He was instrumental in ProjectNormandy, a covert operation
named after World War II'sinvasion, which aimed to
infiltrate and controlClearwater by acquiring
(19:28):
fundamental properties andestablishing a dominant presence
in the city.
Khan's job within Scientologywas multifaceted, encompassing
roles that included liaisingwith real estate agents,
negotiating purchases andmanaging these acquisitions'
legal and financial intricacies.
As part of the operation, khanand his associates used a web of
(19:50):
front organizations to buyproperties without revealing
their actual affiliation withScientology.
This secrecy was crucial toavoid public scrutiny and
resistance.
The acquisitions includednumerous commercial properties
bought for prices significantlyhigher than their market value,
ensuring quick transactions.
Kahn's meticulous approach anddedication to Scientology's
(20:13):
expansionist goals made him akey player in transforming
Clearwater into a de factoScientology city.
Some notable properties acquiredunder Kahn's direction include
a series of commercialproperties in downtown
Clearwater, specifically alongCleveland Street, where the
church now controls 22 out of 33buildings leading to the
(20:33):
waterfront.
These properties were oftenpurchased at prices
significantly higher than theirmarket value to ensure quick,
confidential transactions.
The Yarborough building wasbought through a real estate
agent and parishioner, davidKerr, was bought through a real
estate agent and parishioner,david Kerr.
The property was not listed forsale, but the church managed to
secure it by paying three timesits assessed value.
(20:54):
Companies linked to Scientologymembers purchased multiple
parcels of land in commercialbuildings in the North Marina
area.
These acquisitions amounted tomillions of dollars and included
both developed andunderdeveloped parcels.
These strategic purchases havetransformed downtown Clearwater,
making it a near-exclusivedomain for the Church of
(21:15):
Scientology.
This extensive control overprime real estate has allowed
the church to plan large-scaleredevelopment projects aiming to
revitalize the area whileensuring its dominance remains
unchallenged.
Sandi McKenna (21:29):
Marty Rathbun joined Scientology in the early
1970s, drawn by the promise ofpersonal development and
spiritual enlightenment offeredby L Ron Hubbard's teachings.
Like many others, rathbun wascaptivated by the church's
claims of helping others reachtheir full potential through a
process called auditing, whichaimed to clear individuals of
(21:50):
their past traumas and negativeinfluences.
Rathbun, who held the title ofInspector General of the
Religious Technology Center, wasdeeply involved in the church's
operations during the 70s and80s.
Rathbun quickly rose throughthe ranks.
Due to his dedication andeffectiveness, he became deeply
involved in the church'soperations, in particular legal
(22:11):
and intelligence matters.
By the 1980s, he was a seniorexecutive and played a crucial
role in many of the church'scontroversial activities,
including its aggressiveexpansion into Clearwater.
These acquisitions were part ofa broader strategy to establish
Clearwater as the spiritualheadquarters of Scientology.
Rathbun's expertise in managingthese deceptive transactions
(22:36):
was crucial, enabling the churchto acquire significant real
estate holdings without raisingimmediate suspicion.
Rathbun's role wasn't limited toproperty acquisitions.
He was also known for hishardline tactics against critics
and opponents of Scientology.
This included orchestratingcampaigns of harassment and
intimidation, a hallmark of thechurch's operations during this
(22:58):
period.
Local residents, journalistsand officials who questioned
Scientology's activities oftenfound themselves targeted by
these aggressive measures, manyof which Rathbun directed.
Throughout the 1980s, rathbun'sinfluence within the church
grew as he took on moreresponsibilities, including
managing legal battles anddeploying strategies to protect
(23:20):
Scientology from externalthreats.
His ability to navigate thelegal system and implement
countermeasures againstadversaries further solidifies
his reputation as one of thechurch's most formidable
enforcers.
In this two-part episode, wejust scratched the surface with
these shadowy roles of these keyfigures like Morris Moe Kahn,
(23:42):
whose strategic propertyacquisitions under various front
organizations paved the way forScientology's stronghold, and
Duke Snyder's meticulousintelligence operations ensured
the secrecy and security oftheir audacious plans, creating
an atmosphere of fear andmanipulation.
Henning Heldt's involvement inthe notorious Operation Snow
(24:03):
White highlighted the lengths towhich Scientology would go to
protect its interest and controlits narrative.
We shared how Scientologyinfiltrated local governments,
manipulated the media andexecuted smear campaigns against
its critics.
The calculated acquisition ofthe historic Fort Harrison Hotel
and other key properties waspart of a broader strategy to
(24:26):
establish Clearwater as thechurch's spiritual headquarters.
We reflect on the courageousefforts of those broader
strategy to establish Clearwateras the church's spiritual
headquarters.
We reflect on the courageousefforts of those who dared to
resist and the ongoing impact ofScientology's presence in
Clearwater.
This tale of deception, powerand control serves as a haunting
reminder of the lengths thisorganization will go to maintain
(24:47):
its secrets and expand itsinfluence.
Abraham Aurich (24:51):
Next week we embark on the harrowing tale of
Paulette Cooper, a fearlessjournalist whose quest for truth
led into the crosshairs of oneof the most secretive
organizations in the world.
In this Gripen episode, we'llunravel the mysteries behind
Cooper's relentless pursuit ofexposing Scientology's dark
secrets.
(25:11):
Her bravery knew no bounds, butit came at a steep price.
From covert operation to smearcampaigns, discover how far the
Church went to fair game,Paulette Cooper.
Join us as we unravel thechilling details of Operation
Freakout, a sinister plotdesigned to obliterate Pollitt's
life.
Prepare to be intrigued,shocked and inspired by a woman
(25:35):
who refused to be silenced.
Tune in next week for afearless journalist the story of
Pollitt Cooper.
We hope you subscribe and joinus on the next episode as we
continue to expose the sins ofScientology.
Until then, keep questioning,keep seeking, and may your
journey be as rich andenlightening as the stories you
(25:58):
encounter.
Thank you, the the Thank you.
Picture this a serene coastal town in Florida,
its tranquil streets bathed inthe golden glow of the afternoon
sun.
The year is 1975, andClearwater, florida, seems like
the perfect slice of Americana.
But beneath its idyllic surface, a shadowy presence is quietly
weaving its way into the fabricof this community.
(00:22):
Way into the fabric of thiscommunity A series of mysterious
property acquisitions by anobscure group known as the
United Churches of Florida.
Locals whisper of strangevisitors and secretive meetings
held behind closed doors.
And as the sun sets, thewhispers grow louder and fear
begins to creep into the heartsof Clearwater's residents.
(00:43):
In this episode we delve intothe covert operations
orchestrated by Scientology,guided by L Ron Hubbard's
secretive directives.
His policy letters, filled withstrategies of infiltration,
intelligence gathering andrelentless legal battles, set
the stage for a silent invasion.
Consider this A town slowlywakes up to the realization that
(01:07):
it has been infiltrated.
Key properties, including thehistoric Fort Harrison Hotel,
are now under the control ofthis mysterious organization.
The local government, onceunsuspecting, finds itself under
scrutiny and pressure fromunseen forces.
Join us as we peel back thelayers of this real-life
thriller.
We'll explore the clandestinemaneuvers and hidden agendas,
(01:30):
from Operation Normandy'sdetailed planning to the
Guardian Office's chillingtactics, we'll uncover how
Clearwater became the epicenterof a battle between truth and
deception.
I'm Sandy McKenna and, alongwith Abraham Ulrich, welcome to
the Sins of Scientology.
Abraham Aurich (02:02):
In part one of our exploration into
Scientology's impact onClearwater, florida, we
uncovered the city'stransformation from a vibrant
coastal community to thesecretive global headquarters of
Scientology.
We detail Clearwater's charmingpre-Scientology era, the
historic significance of theFort Harrison Hotel and the
covert real estate acquisitionsthat marked Scientology's
(02:26):
arrival.
Mayor Gabe Cazares' courageousopposition in 1976 brought
national attention andhighlighted the church's
aggressive legal tactics.
We also discussed the 1977 FBIraids that exposed Scientology's
covert operations, the church's1980s PR efforts to improve its
(02:47):
image and the 1983 CityCommission resolution calling
for federal investigation.
Lastly, we examine theSandcastle Motel acquisition,
uncovering the church'sexpanding influence and the
community's persistent concerns.
In Part 2, we take a lingeringlook into the key players and
ongoing struggles in this saga.
(03:08):
What better way to begin thisepisode than with the words of
Scientology's founder himself, lRon Hubbard, and I quote Once
the world is clear, a nation, astate, a city or a village, the
Scientology organization in thatarea becomes its government,
and once this has taken place,the only policy accepted as
(03:29):
valid is Scientology's policy.
End quote.
Another interesting quote by LRon Hubbard Quote you want to
know what happens when you cleareverybody in that neighborhood.
The only thing thatScientology's center can become
used for is a political center,because by the time you've done
all this, you are government.
End quote L Ron Hubbard,january 9, 1962.
(03:52):
Now, those quotes are a bitchilling, but ridiculous
nonetheless.
Sandi McKenna (04:03):
No one has covered Scientology's takeover
of Clearwater more thoroughlyand compellingly than the
Pulitzer Prize-winning series bythe St Petersburg Times In late
1979, leveraging courtdocuments from a criminal case
against Scientology leaders,bette Swenson Orsini and Charles
Stafford of the Times examinedhow this insidious invasion took
place.
Their work earned them the 1980Pulitzer Prize for National
(04:24):
Reporting.
Let's rewind to December 5,1975.
On this day, the hierarchy ofScientology issued a chilling
directive titled Power Project 3Normandy.
The major target To fullyinvestigate the Clearwater city
and county area, identifyingallies and enemies and handling
(04:46):
them as needed.
This marked the beginning of acalculated and clandestine
operation.
Fast forward to January 26, 1976.
At this time, scientology wasstill masquerading in Clearwater
under the guise of the UnitedChurches of Florida.
On this day, a church officialnamed Joe Lisa concocted a
sinister scheme to get areporter, mike Sabelman, fired
(05:08):
from the Clearwater Sun.
His plan was as follows, and Iquote have an elderly woman go
into the office, overcome withgrief and hysteria, demanding to
see Sabelman's boss.
She would then accuse Sabelmanof sexually assaulting her son
or grandson, throwing a luridand perverted magazine in the
boss's face and threatening togo to the police if the pervert
(05:29):
Sabelman was not dealt with.
This malicious plot was just onepiece of a larger deceptive
strategy to infiltrate andcontrol Clearwater.
The church aimed to establishits headquarters in the city
through discreet and underhandedmeans, avoiding public and
governmental scrutiny at allcosts.
Documents reveal thatScientology came to Clearwater
(05:55):
with a specific agenda toestablish its program
headquarters, its school oftheology, in the Fort Harrison
Hotel and to gain control overthe city.
The United Churches of Floridawas created as a front to
protect church assets frompotential government seizure.
These documents also expose howthe church officials devised
and executed plots to discredittheir perceived enemies.
(06:16):
This included the mayor, whoquestioned their secrecy,
journalists who investigated andreported on Scientology, and
the editor and owner of thearea's largest newspaper, and
even local police departments.
They revealed that covertagents of the church infiltrated
local newspapers, communityagencies and law firms under
their employ to gatherintelligence and spy.
(06:38):
While I'm no theologian, Iquestion how this could be the
behavior of a legitimatereligious organization.
Abraham Aurich (06:47):
Milton Wolfe arrived in Clearwater in 1975 as
a spokesman for the UnitedChurches of Florida, a front
group for the Church ofScientology.
His role was part of a broaderstrategy by Scientology to
establish a presence and exertinfluence in Clearwater.
The United Churches aimed tomake alliances with local
(07:07):
religious and government leaders, but the organization's true
affiliation with Scientology wasrevealed by the investigative
journalists in early 1976.
Undermining these efforts, wolfwas involved in leading the
American Citizens for Honesty inGovernment, achg, another
Scientology front group.
This organization conductedinvestigations into various
(07:30):
local agencies and officials,attempting to eliminate what
they termed false reports aboutScientology.
Their activities includedprobing local hospitals for
alleged abuses and targetingvarious government agencies for
surveillance and pressure.
The activities of the AmericanCitizens for Honesty in
Government and other Scientologyfront groups in Clearwater
(07:52):
during the mid-1970s involvedseveral aggressive tactics aimed
at discrediting and pressuringlocal institutions and
individuals perceived asadversaries to Scientology.
Scientology operatives engagedin extensive surveillance of
local government offices,including the city commission,
the mayoral offices, cityattorneys, police departments
(08:15):
and planning and zoning boards.
Their goal was to uncover andeliminate what they consider
false reports aboutScientology's activities.
Documents indicated thatScientologists were even planted
within these agencies to ensurecompliance and gather
intelligence.
Groups like the Committee forthe Protection of Mental
(08:36):
Patients' Rights and otherScientology fronts conducted
investigations into allegedabuses at local psychiatry
facilities such as the AnclotePsychiatric Center and Horizon
Hospital.
These activities were framed asefforts to reform mental health
practices, but were part of abroader strategy to challenge
(08:56):
and discredit the psychiatryprofession, which Scientology
viewed as a significantadversary.
Scientology aimed to controllocal media to prevent negative
coverage and promote favorablenarratives about their
activities.
This included attempts toinfluence local newspapers and
other media outlets, and whenthese efforts failed, they
(09:16):
resorted to direct attacks andlegal challenges against
critical media entities.
The revelation of Scientology'sconnection to the United
Church's front group by localjournalists in early 1976 was a
significant setback for theseefforts.
As mentioned in Part 1, formerClearwater Mayor Gabe Caz, 1976
was a significant setback forthese efforts.
As mentioned in part one, formerClearwater mayor Gabe Cazares
was a notable target ofScientology's smear campaign.
(09:38):
Cazares, who was openlycritical of Scientology, faced
various forms of harassment andlegal challenges from the church
.
These efforts were intended tosilence critics and create a
more favorable environment forScientology's activities in
Clearwater.
The church utilized both legalmeans and covert operations to
achieve its goal.
This included filing lawsuitsto challenge unfavorable
(10:02):
decisions or to intimidateopponents, as well as engaging
in clandestine operations likeOperation Snow White, which
aimed to purge negativeinformation about Scientology
from government files worldwide.
Although primarily focused infederal agencies, elements of
these tactics were appliedlocally, in Clearwater as well.
Sandi McKenna (10:22):
In the covert operations of Scientology's
Clearwater takeover.
One name often whispered butrarely spotlighted is that of
Duke Snyder.
Often whispered but rarelyspotlighted is that of Duke
Snyder.
Snyder was an elusive figurewho was instrumental in the
intelligence-gatheringactivities crucial for the
church's successful infiltrationand control of this Florida
town.
His meticulous efforts ensuredthe secrecy and security of
(10:46):
Scientology's audacious plans,casting him as a shadowy puppet
mastermind behind the scenes.
Duke Snyder wasn't a mere footsoldier.
He was a strategic mastermindtasked with gathering critical
information and keeping thechurch's activities under wraps.
As the church set its sights onClearwater in the mid-1970s,
(11:08):
they knew that knowledge waspower.
Snyder's role was to obtainthat knowledge.
Operating with the precision ofa seasoned spy, he meticulously
scouted the landscape,identifying potential threats,
allies and opportunities.
His intelligence reports werethe lifeblood of Scientology's
clandestine operations.
Snyder's work often requiredhim to blend into the background
(11:30):
, a ghost among the living.
He cultivated a network ofinformants and allies who fed
him valuable information aboutlocal government operations,
business dealings and even thepersonal lives of key Clearwater
residents.
This network provided thechurch with the inside scoop it
needed to manipulate, maneuverand maintain an upper hand in
its takeover efforts.
(11:52):
One of Snyder's primary taskswas to ensure the veil of
secrecy over Scientology'sintentions.
This required a meticulouscover-up of their real estate
purchases and organizationalactivities.
Snyder orchestrated a series ofcorporations and front
organizations, each designed toobfuscate the church's
involvement.
These entities appeared benignand unconnected, but they were
(12:15):
all strings pulled by Snyder tokeep Scientology's true motives
hidden from prying eyes.
His methods were not justlimited to gathering
intelligence, they also involvedcounterintelligence.
Snyder was adept at identifyingand neutralizing threats to the
church's plans.
This meant discrediting localactivists, sowing discord
amongst opposition groups and,if necessary, deploying
(12:39):
intimidation tactics.
His operations created aclimate of fear and confusion
which stifled resistance andallowed Scientology to move
forward with its takeoverlargely unchallenged.
Duke Snyder's work was thebackbone of Scientology's
strategy in Clearwater.
His intelligence andcounterintelligence efforts
ensured that Scientology'soperations remained a step ahead
(13:02):
of their adversaries.
The success of the Clearwatertakeover can be traced back to
the shadowy figure of Snyder,whose cloak-and-dagger tactics
exemplified the dark side ofScientology's rise to power in
the unsuspecting town.
In the true crime saga ofScientology's Clearwater
conquest, duke Snyder remainsyet a key, enigmatic figure, a
(13:24):
master of espionage whosecontributions were pivotal in
turning the town into astronghold for the church.
Abraham Aurich (13:32):
Henning Heldt was a prominent figure within
the Church of Scientology duringthe 1970s, mainly known for his
role in the church's guardianoffice, responsible for the
church's intelligence and covertoperations.
Henning Heldt's backgroundincluded working closely with
high-ranking officials withinthe Church of Scientology.
He was notably involved in theChurch's efforts to protect its
(13:54):
interest and manage its publicimage, often through
controversial and covert means.
His involvement withScientology escalated when he
became the Deputy Guardian forthe United States, a senior
position within the Guardian'sOffice.
In this role, he oversawnumerous operations to safeguard
the Church's secrets and expandits influence.
(14:15):
One of Held's most notoriousactivities was his involvement
in Operation Snow White, aconspiracy orchestrated by
Scientology.
This operation aimed to purgeunfavorable records about
Scientology from governmentfiles.
Held, along with other seniorScientology officials,
orchestrated the infiltration ofvarious US government agencies,
(14:37):
including the IRS, to steal ortamper with records that were
detrimental to the church.
Held's activities eventuallyled to significant legal
repercussions.
In 1977, the FBI conducted oneof its most extensive raids on
Scientology offices inWashington DC and Los Angeles.
These raids aimed to uncoverevidence of the church's illegal
(14:57):
activities, especially thoserelated to Operation Snow White.
Held was among the key figurestargeted during these raids.
Subsequently, held was chargedand convicted of multiple crimes
, including conspiracy againstthe US government.
His conviction, along withthose other senior Scientology
officials, marked a significantmoment in the history of
(15:18):
Scientology's legal battles.
Henning Held's actions had aprofound impact on both
Scientology and the publicperception.
The exposure of Operation SnowWhite and the subsequent
conviction damaged the church'sreputation and highlighted its
willingness to engage in illegalactivities to promote its
interests.
These events also led toincreased scrutiny in legal
(15:40):
challenges against Scientologyin the years that followed.
Sandi McKenna (15:44):
Dick Weigand was a shadowy figure within the
Church of Scientology, known forhis pivotal role in the
Church's covert operations anddeeply involved in Operation
Normandy.
Weigand was a key player in theGuardian's office,
scientology's intelligence andespionage arm.
His job was not for the faintof heart.
(16:04):
It involved planning andexecuting covert operations to
protect and expand the church'sinfluence.
His name might not be as widelyknown as that of L Ron Hubbard
or Mary Sue Hubbard, but hisactions left a lasting imprint
on Clearwater.
His involvement in OperationNormandy was critical.
The operation was designed toinfiltrate and take control of
(16:26):
Clearwater discreetly.
Was designed to infiltrate andtake control of Clearwater
discreetly?
The ultimate goal To establishthe flag-land-based
Scientology's internationalspiritual headquarters without
arousing suspicion or resistancefrom the local community.
One of his strategies was usingfront organizations.
Under his guidance, scientologycreated the United Churches of
Florida, a seemingly benignentity that purchased the Fort
(16:49):
Harrison Hotel in 1975.
This hotel was to become thenerve center for Scientology's
operations in Clearwater.
He orchestrated theinfiltration of local government
offices and communityorganizations.
Under his direction,scientologists posed as members
of these organizations to gatherintelligence and influence
local decisions.
(17:10):
Wigand's meticulous planningensured that these operations
could collect crucialinformation about city officials
, journalists and anyone deemeda threat to Scientology's
ambitions.
He was instrumental in settingup surveillance operations.
His team monitored localofficials and critics,
collecting personal andprofessional data.
This information was used tomanipulate, discredit and
(17:33):
silence those who opposedScientology's plans.
Despite his careful planning,operation Normandy began to
unravel as the scale ofScientology's covert activities
came to light.
Raids led to a series ofindictments and Wigand found
himself ensnared in a legalfallout Alongside other
high-ranking Guardian's Officeofficials.
(17:54):
He was charged with conspiracyand obstruction of justice.
In 1988, he was convicted andsentenced to prison, and his
role in the Clearwater Takeoverwas now exposed to the world.
Dick Wigand's involvement inthe Clearwater takeover is a
stark reminder of the lengths towhich Scientology was willing
to go to establish its foothold.
(18:15):
His actions were part of abroader pattern of deception and
manipulation that characterizedthe church's operations during
this period.
Wigand's legacy is a cautionarytale of covert operations gone
awry.
His meticulous planning andexecution of Operation Normandy
initially succeeded in embeddingScientology into the fabric of
(18:36):
Clearwater.
Still, the subsequent exposureand legal repercussions
highlighted the dangers andethical breaches of such
clandestine efforts, of suchclandestine efforts.
Abraham Aurich (18:47):
Morris Moe Kahn, a pivotal figure in
Scientology's covert propertyacquisition strategy in
Clearwater, florida, operatedunder the radar, utilizing a
series of front organizations toachieve the church's ambitious
goal.
His involvement in Scientologybegan in the early days when the
church set its sights onestablishing a stronghold in
(19:07):
Clearwater.
Days when the church set itssights on establishing a
stronghold in Clearwater, kahnjoined Scientology in the early
1970s, aligning himself with thechurch's broader mission to
expand its influence throughstrategic real estate purchases.
He was instrumental in ProjectNormandy, a covert operation
named after World War II'sinvasion, which aimed to
infiltrate and controlClearwater by acquiring
(19:28):
fundamental properties andestablishing a dominant presence
in the city.
Khan's job within Scientologywas multifaceted, encompassing
roles that included liaisingwith real estate agents,
negotiating purchases andmanaging these acquisitions'
legal and financial intricacies.
As part of the operation, khanand his associates used a web of
(19:50):
front organizations to buyproperties without revealing
their actual affiliation withScientology.
This secrecy was crucial toavoid public scrutiny and
resistance.
The acquisitions includednumerous commercial properties
bought for prices significantlyhigher than their market value,
ensuring quick transactions.
Kahn's meticulous approach anddedication to Scientology's
(20:13):
expansionist goals made him akey player in transforming
Clearwater into a de factoScientology city.
Some notable properties acquiredunder Kahn's direction include
a series of commercialproperties in downtown
Clearwater, specifically alongCleveland Street, where the
church now controls 22 out of 33buildings leading to the
(20:33):
waterfront.
These properties were oftenpurchased at prices
significantly higher than theirmarket value to ensure quick,
confidential transactions.
The Yarborough building wasbought through a real estate
agent and parishioner, davidKerr, was bought through a real
estate agent and parishioner,david Kerr.
The property was not listed forsale, but the church managed to
secure it by paying three timesits assessed value.
(20:54):
Companies linked to Scientologymembers purchased multiple
parcels of land in commercialbuildings in the North Marina
area.
These acquisitions amounted tomillions of dollars and included
both developed andunderdeveloped parcels.
These strategic purchases havetransformed downtown Clearwater,
making it a near-exclusivedomain for the Church of
(21:15):
Scientology.
This extensive control overprime real estate has allowed
the church to plan large-scaleredevelopment projects aiming to
revitalize the area whileensuring its dominance remains
unchallenged.
Sandi McKenna (21:29):
Marty Rathbun joined Scientology in the early
1970s, drawn by the promise ofpersonal development and
spiritual enlightenment offeredby L Ron Hubbard's teachings.
Like many others, rathbun wascaptivated by the church's
claims of helping others reachtheir full potential through a
process called auditing, whichaimed to clear individuals of
(21:50):
their past traumas and negativeinfluences.
Rathbun, who held the title ofInspector General of the
Religious Technology Center, wasdeeply involved in the church's
operations during the 70s and80s.
Rathbun quickly rose throughthe ranks.
Due to his dedication andeffectiveness, he became deeply
involved in the church'soperations, in particular legal
(22:11):
and intelligence matters.
By the 1980s, he was a seniorexecutive and played a crucial
role in many of the church'scontroversial activities,
including its aggressiveexpansion into Clearwater.
These acquisitions were part ofa broader strategy to establish
Clearwater as the spiritualheadquarters of Scientology.
Rathbun's expertise in managingthese deceptive transactions
(22:36):
was crucial, enabling the churchto acquire significant real
estate holdings without raisingimmediate suspicion.
Rathbun's role wasn't limited toproperty acquisitions.
He was also known for hishardline tactics against critics
and opponents of Scientology.
This included orchestratingcampaigns of harassment and
intimidation, a hallmark of thechurch's operations during this
(22:58):
period.
Local residents, journalistsand officials who questioned
Scientology's activities oftenfound themselves targeted by
these aggressive measures, manyof which Rathbun directed.
Throughout the 1980s, rathbun'sinfluence within the church
grew as he took on moreresponsibilities, including
managing legal battles anddeploying strategies to protect
(23:20):
Scientology from externalthreats.
His ability to navigate thelegal system and implement
countermeasures againstadversaries further solidifies
his reputation as one of thechurch's most formidable
enforcers.
In this two-part episode, wejust scratched the surface with
these shadowy roles of these keyfigures like Morris Moe Kahn,
(23:42):
whose strategic propertyacquisitions under various front
organizations paved the way forScientology's stronghold, and
Duke Snyder's meticulousintelligence operations ensured
the secrecy and security oftheir audacious plans, creating
an atmosphere of fear andmanipulation.
Henning Heldt's involvement inthe notorious Operation Snow
(24:03):
White highlighted the lengths towhich Scientology would go to
protect its interest and controlits narrative.
We shared how Scientologyinfiltrated local governments,
manipulated the media andexecuted smear campaigns against
its critics.
The calculated acquisition ofthe historic Fort Harrison Hotel
and other key properties waspart of a broader strategy to
(24:26):
establish Clearwater as thechurch's spiritual headquarters.
We reflect on the courageousefforts of those broader
strategy to establish Clearwateras the church's spiritual
headquarters.
We reflect on the courageousefforts of those who dared to
resist and the ongoing impact ofScientology's presence in
Clearwater.
This tale of deception, powerand control serves as a haunting
reminder of the lengths thisorganization will go to maintain
(24:47):
its secrets and expand itsinfluence.
Abraham Aurich (24:51):
Next week we embark on the harrowing tale of
Paulette Cooper, a fearlessjournalist whose quest for truth
led into the crosshairs of oneof the most secretive
organizations in the world.
In this Gripen episode, we'llunravel the mysteries behind
Cooper's relentless pursuit ofexposing Scientology's dark
secrets.
(25:11):
Her bravery knew no bounds, butit came at a steep price.
From covert operation to smearcampaigns, discover how far the
Church went to fair game,Paulette Cooper.
Join us as we unravel thechilling details of Operation
Freakout, a sinister plotdesigned to obliterate Pollitt's
life.
Prepare to be intrigued,shocked and inspired by a woman
(25:35):
who refused to be silenced.
Tune in next week for afearless journalist the story of
Pollitt Cooper.
We hope you subscribe and joinus on the next episode as we
continue to expose the sins ofScientology.
Until then, keep questioning,keep seeking, and may your
journey be as rich andenlightening as the stories you
(25:58):
encounter.
Thank you, the the Thank you.
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