Leah Remini, Dancing with the Stars contestant and former Scientologist, had her deposition blocked by attorneys for the Church of Scientology, claims a US tabloid. This announcement comes after Scientology, the religion made famous by Tom Cruise’s epic couch jumping, was found guilty of fraud by France’s highest court.
Gossip site Radar Online is alleging that the Church of Scientology is trying to block Remini from speaking in court. In an exclusive statement they received from Mark Weigand, counsel for the plaintiff, he indicates that they wouldn’t like to hear what Remini has to say:
“It was delayed by agreement to take her deposition at a later date. As of right now, the date is not set in stone. [Scientologists] don’t particularly want that deposition taken. But we’re entitled to discovery on matters that are relevant, and this is a relevant matter.”
The lawsuit, which was filed by Monique and Marty Rathbun, claims that the couple has been harassed by the church and its leader, David Miscavige. According to official court documents:
“[Monique] has been subjected to numerous, aggressive attempts to intimidate her… She has been targeted at home, at work, and anywhere else that she happens to be. She has been harassed, insulted, surveilled, photographed, videotaped, defamed, and humiliated to such a degree as to shock the conscience of any decent, law-abiding person.”
While Ms. Remini has not been barred from the courtroom, no date has been set for her deposition. This must come as a welcome relief for the Church of Scientology, which has been losing court battle after court battle--most recently in France.
According to Huff Po:
“France's highest appeals court has upheld the 2009 fraud conviction of the Church of Scientology's French branch, its bookstore and five of its leaders. The Scientologists were accused of pressuring members into paying large sums for questionable services and materials and using 'commercial harassment' against recruits. The group and bookstore were fined 600,000 euros ($814,000). The Scientologists' appeals of their convictions claimed infringement on their religious freedom.”
What do you think about the latest allegations? Does the Church of Scientology have something to hide or are they just trying to find a convenient date? Tell us your thoughts in the comment field below.
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