Stu Wyatt Press Release

NEW VERSION OF PRESS RELEASE AS OF 4:23 PM PDT 6/12

Plymouth, UK - Stuart "Stu" Wyatt, an activist who has been an outspoken critic of Scientology, was arrested this morning at his home in Plymouth, UK. It is reported that the arrest has stemmed from a charge of assault by a staff member from the local Scientology "org" (branch) in Plymouth.

The alleged assault occurred during a "flash protest" with supporters of Anonymous on June 3rd, 2008 at Plymouth's City Centre. A "flash protest" is an improvised picket intended to inform the public of Scientology's dishonest recruiting practices - including using a "Free Stress Test" and distributing fliers that have recently been objected to by the UK Advertising Standards Authority for unsubstantiated medical claims.

Stu uses a mobility scooter to assist him in his daily activities due to a neurological condition. Known for his politeness and soothing voice, this well-loved activist garnered the respect of local law enforcement and thousands of viewers on YouTube. One of his most popular videos was from a "flash protest" on May 31, 2008 when Vicky Boyce, the President of Scientology's "Plymouth Org", stole three signs from the protesters. Carrying a camera, Stu followed Ms. Boyce through shopping malls, down streets, and in front of the Scientology office, all the while informing passers-by of the theft. The police were called and a once-smiling Vicky Boyce was forced to return the signs. This incident, and others in the past months documenting Stu's cheerful placidity in the face of physical assault by Scientology employees, have endeared Stu to a wide audience.

During the course of the June 3rd protest, videotaped for his personal safety, a representative of the Church of Scientology obstructed his passage and attempted to "bait" an assault by placing her feet in front the wheels of his mobility scooter. This tactic, known as "bull-baiting", is included in "religious" training intended to induce actionable incidents as part of a long-recognizable history of litigious harassment by Scientology. The provocation has as its goal production of material used to harass and discredit critics of Scientology.

As of the writing of this press release, Stu Wyatt was to our knowledge still in the custody of local law enforcement with charges of assault against him. His court date is tomorrow, June 13, 2008 at 10:00 AM.

Anonymous is an international leaderless collective of individuals from all walks of life who use the internet and are united by the power of ideas. The next Anonymous protest in Plymouth, UK and in many cities worldwide will be on Saturday, June 14, 2008 at 11:00 AM and will focus on the abuses of the cult of Scientology's "navy" called The Sea Org in which members must sign a one billion year contract in addition to agreeing to relinquish all of their civil rights. Anonymous protesters and concerned members of the public are encouraged to wear pirate costumes to participate in the Anonymous parody of The Sea Org called The Sea Arrrgh.

For interviews, press inquiries, or more information regarding Stu Wyatt, please call David of the local Plymouth Cult Watch at 0785-3016084.

For more information about Anonymous, please visit the following links:

1) Operation: Sea Arrrgh - June 14
2) Why We Protest
3) Link to the the alleged "assault":

4) Show ASA Adjudications