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Protester Sues Church Of Scientology
College Student Says Peaceful Protest Intent Led To Arrest
POSTED: 4:10 pm CDT October 30,
2009
UPDATED: 7:39 pm CDT October 30,
2009
NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- A college student is suing the Nashville Church of Scientology, a security company and three off-duty Spring Hill police officers for $6 million. Thomas Parker said he was knocked to the ground, handcuffed and arrested, for nothing more than attempting to peacefully protest.
The Church of Scientology's grand opening turned into a grand mess when hired security arrested protesters. It would have been a he-said, she-said -- except that it was all caught on tape.Parker was on his way to protest the grand opening. He was still blocks away when security guards cut off him and his group.Three off-duty officers working for Hayes Security and hired by the church took down Parker, handcuffed and arrested him.The church had taken out permits to block the street for the wrong day.Parker, through his attorney, Nathaniel Koenig, is suing all of the above-mentioned parties."I'm just hoping that right will be done," Parker said.Brian Fesler, a Church of Scientology representative, said the group had threatened the church in the past.
Previous Stories:
- May 13, 2009: Citations Dropped In Scientology Scuffle
- May 8, 2009: Scientology Security Permits Not Valid
- May 7, 2009: Protesters Say They Were Bullied By Police
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