Scientology Lies

The Church of Scientology is being sued by a former member who says the organization has failed to refund him $68,764.

Howard Mintz says in his lawsuit that he had placed the money on account with the church so he could receive "auditing services." Auditing is a Scientology counseling process that can cost as much as $800 per hour.

The church in September agreed that it owed Mintz $80,096 and began repaying the money, according to the lawsuit. But later payments were not made as scheduled, the suit states.

The Church of Scientology has its international spiritual headquarters in Clearwater. Critics call it a cult, but members say it is a bona fide religion.

Paul Johnson, an attorney who represents the church, said he had not yet seen the lawsuit. "I really think it's some kind of snafu, and it'll all be taken care of," he said.

"The church's policy is very clear," Johnson added. "If he contributed money for services and didn't use them, they'll pay him back."