Lisa McPherson Follower of the Church of Scientology Date of Birth: 10.02.1959 Country: USA

1. Lisa McPherson: A Controversial Death
2. Allegations of Negligence
3. Civil Lawsuit and Settlement
4. Early Life and Scientology Involvement
5. Introspection Rundown and Car Accident
6. Isolation and Deteriorating Health
7. Attempts to Contact Medical Help
8. Death and Suspicious Circumstances

Lisa McPherson: A Controversial Death

Lisa McPherson, a devout follower of the Church of Scientology, died on December 5, 1995, from a pulmonary embolism while in the care of the church's Flag Service Organization.

Allegations of Negligence

According to the medical examiner's report, McPherson's death was the result of negligent homicide, leading to criminal charges against the Church of Scientology for practicing medicine without a license and for elder abuse and neglect. However, these charges were later dropped after the medical examiner changed the cause of death from 'undetermined' to 'accident' on June 13, 2000.

Civil Lawsuit and Settlement

McPherson's family filed a civil lawsuit against the church, which was settled on May 28, 2004.

Early Life and Scientology Involvement

McPherson joined Scientology at the age of 18 in 1978. In 1994, she moved from Dallas, Texas, to Clearwater, Florida, to follow her employer, AMC Publishing, which was owned by fellow Scientologist Bennetta Slaughter.

Introspection Rundown and Car Accident

In June 1995, McPherson underwent an Introspection Rundown, a Scientology procedure involving isolation and aimed at addressing mental health issues. In November 1995, she was involved in a minor car accident and refused psychiatric evaluation at the hospital, opting instead for assistance from fellow Scientologists.

Isolation and Deteriorating Health

McPherson was taken to the Flag Land Base, where she was placed in isolation, monitored around the clock, and given natural supplements and medications. Witnesses described her as exhibiting erratic behavior, including aggression and self-mutilation. She refused to eat and became increasingly weak and lethargic.

Attempts to Contact Medical Help

On December 5, McPherson's breathing became labored, and she was taken to Dr. David Minkoff, a Scientologist who prescribed her Valium and chloral hydrate without examining her. Minkoff declined to provide antibiotics or authorize her transfer to a hospital, despite staff concerns.

Death and Suspicious Circumstances

McPherson died at Minkoff's hospital after bypassing four other hospitals that could have provided timely medical attention. Her cause of death was initially reported as meningitis or a blood clot, but an investigation was launched due to suspicious circumstances. The criminal charges were eventually dropped, and the civil lawsuit was settled out of court after nine years.