Scientology head can’t be forced to testify, Texas court rules
David Miscavige, head of the Church of Scientology, cannot be forced to testify in a harassment lawsuit filed by the wife of a prominent church critic who lives in Comal County, a state appeals court ruled Thursday.
The 3rd Court of Appeals in Austin ruled that Monique Rathbun, who alleged that Scientologists conducted a three-year harassment campaign when her husband, Marty Rathbun, began speaking out against church activities, did not prove that Miscavige had “unique or superior knowledge” to offer in a deposition.
However, the court did not rule out the possibility that “additional, less intrusive means of discovery” could establish Rathbun’s right to force Miscavige to answer questions, under oath, in a future deposition.
Marty Rathbun is a former high-ranking member who left the Church of Scientology in 2004 and later accused Miscavige of physically and psychologically abusing other church members, court records show.
More at http://www.statesman.com/news/news/crime-law/scientology-head-cant-be-forced-to-testify-texas-c/nghR7/ .
Related thread:
Scientology Defector’s Epic Showdown Begins in New Braunfels Court
http://www.democraticunderground.com/107812059 (Sept. 2013)
Scientology judge scolds lawyers in New Braunfels (stalking case)
http://www.democraticunderground.com/107814958 (Feb. 2014)