Judge Dismisses Parts of Leah Remini’s Scientology Lawsuit, Allows Stalking Allegations to Proceed
In a significant development, a judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court has dismissed certain aspects of Leah Remini’s civil defamation and harassment lawsuit against the Church of Scientology, while allowing allegations of stalking, harassment, and surveillance to proceed.
The ruling, delivered by Judge Randolph Hammock, centered on the grounds of American First Amendment rights. While portions of the lawsuit were struck down under California’s anti-SLAPP statute, which protects free speech regarding matters of public interest, Remini’s claims of stalking and harassment were deemed valid to continue.
The Church of Scientology hailed the decision as a victory, emphasizing the dismissal of certain portions of the lawsuit as a triumph for free speech. They expressed intentions to seek lawyer’s fees from Remini, as permitted under the anti-SLAPP statute.
Remini’s lawsuit, filed in August 2023 against the Church and its leader David Miscavige, alleges “mob-style operations and attacks” by Scientology since her departure from the faith in 2013. The lawsuit seeks unspecified damages for the alleged harm inflicted on her and her career.
While the judge dismissed some claims, certain allegations of defamation still stand, including accusations of verbal abuse and interference in employment contracts. Additionally, Remini’s claims of being stalked by Scientology operatives, including incidents of harassment directed at her and her associates, remain permissible in court.
The lawsuit sheds light on Scientology’s controversial tactics, including the alleged use of “Fair Game” strategies, which target defectors for harassment and surveillance. Despite the ruling, Remini continues her vocal criticism of Scientology, urging support for organizations aiding former members seeking to leave the faith.
Remini’s lawsuit against the Church of Scientology is scheduled to proceed on October 27, 2025, marking another chapter in her ongoing battle against the religious organization she once belonged to.
Leah Remini, a prominent figure in Hollywood known for her roles in television shows like “The King of Queens,” has been a vocal critic of Scientology since her departure. Her documentary series, “Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath,” garnered acclaim and shed light on alleged abuses within the organization.
As the legal battle continues, Remini remains steadfast in her efforts to hold Scientology accountable for what she perceives as systemic abuses and harassment endured by former members.
