SCIENTOLOGISTS ACCUSED OF FRAUD IN FRANCE

April 4, 2001

(Paris-AP) -- A French judge has decided to take the Paris branch of the
Church of Scientology to court for attempted fraud and false advertising.

Judicial sources in France say the case was brought by three former
Scientologists.

A spokesman for the Church of Scientology calls the prosecution a violation
of the human rights of members of minority religions.

The Los Angeles-based Church of Scientology has long had a contentious
relationship with France and figures on a list of 178 groups to be tracked to
prevent cult activities.

APTV-04-04-01 0230CDT