Scientology Bankrupted Cult Awareness Network

In 1991, Cult Awareness Network director Cynthia Kisser described Scientology as the most ruthless, terroristic, litigious, and lucrative cult in America. That year, more than 50 Scientologists filed civil suits against CAN, many using nearly identical claims through the same Los Angeles law firm. The lawsuits overwhelmed CAN's $300,000 annual budget, but a $1 million judgment over its role in the forced deprogramming of a Pentecostal man named Jason Scott ultimately pushed it into bankruptcy in 1996. A Scientologist lawyer named Steven L. Hayes bought CAN's name, logo, post office box, and hotline, then licensed them to the foundation that launched the New Cult Awareness Network.

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