Scientology indicted for member's death

[November 16, 1998]

The Lisa McPherson case has been an open investigation in Clearwater, FL since McPherson's death almost three years ago. State prosecutors have been studying evidence in an effort to determine whether to file charges against Scientology for McPherson's death. Lisa McPherson died in December, 1995 at 36 after spending 17 ghastly days in the hands of Scientologists in Scientology's landmark building, the Ft. Harrison hotel. The records of Scientologists in charge of her during those days depict a psychologically distressed woman, but she was not medically treated. When she became extremely ill, Scientology staffers drove 45 minutes - past two hospitals - to bring her to a Scientologist doctor. She was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. Autopsy reports show she was severely dehydrated and bruised, with insect bits on her body. In December, 1997 investigators recommended to State Attorney Bernie McCabe to prosecute Scientology on criminal charges. On November 13, 1998, McCabe indicted Scientology in McPherson's death, charging the organization with abuse or neglect of a disabled adult and practicing medicine without a license, both felonies.

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Sites on Lisa McPherson 's life and death