FROM THE FILES OF THE FBI #16
[illegible form information]
Office Mem[______]um - UNITED [______] GOVERNMENT
TO : Mr. L.V. Boa[__]man
DATE: October 11, 1957
FROM: Mr. A.H. Belmont
SUBJECT: THE ACADEMY OF SCIENTOLOGY
INFORMATION CONCERNING
INTERNAL SECURITY
On 10-9-57 the Bureau received a letter dated 10-8-57 from
Richard F. Steves, organizational secretary, The Academy of
Scientology, 1812 19th Street, Northwest, Washington 9, D.C. Steves
states on Harvey Jackins is purporting himself as someone knowing
the "Science" and doing this work in Seattle, Washington. Steves
continues that Jackins has no association with this organization or
any other Dianetic or Scientology organization, and it is the
Academy's desire that Jackins be investigated as to communist
activities.
The Academy of Scientology has not been the subject of
investigation by the Bureau. It is operated by L. Ron Hubbard.
Hubbard has either operated or been connected with organizations
pertaining to Scientology and Dianetic [sic] for a number of years.
Dianetic [sic] has been described as a modern science of mental
health, which may be likened to psychotherapy with certain
differences as to method and theory. Scientology has been described
as the modern scientific method for instilling self-confidence,
assist individuals in removing mental problems and obtaining human
ability.
Hubbard appeared at the Bureau and was interviewed on 3-1-51. He
furnished information regarding alleged communist infiltration into
one of his organizations. Thereafter, he corresponded with the
Bureau concerning individuals in his organization whom he believed
to be communists. Attached to a letter of Hubbard's dated 7-11-55
is a notation "make appears mental card' [BLACKED OUT]" This letter
and subsequent letters have not been acknowledged. Numerous
inquiries have been made of the Bureau concerning Hubbard's
activities. (62-94080)
Bufiles contain no record of Steves other than reflecting his
position as organizational secretary of The Academy of Scientology.
1 - Mr. Boardman
1 - Mr. Belmont
1 - Mr. Preusse
WNP:pw (4)
[page 2]
Memorandum to Mr. Boardman
RE: THE ACADEMY OF SCIENTOLOGY
[BLACKED OUT PARAGRAPH]
_OBSERVATIONS_
In the past, letters from L. Ron Hubbard, who operates The
Academy of Scientology, have not been acknowledged because of his
possible mental instability and rambling and incoherent nature of
his letters. Contents of Steves' letter reflect probably intent The
Academy of Scientology to discredit Jackins in Dianetic and
Scientology field and use the Bureau as a steppingstone in doing
so. It is believed no purpose would be served by acknowledging
Steves' letter. Furthermore, a letter in his possession might be
used by him or The Academy of Scientology for self-serving
purposes. As letter contains no significant information of value
concerning Jackins, Seattle will not be advised of contents of
letter.
_RECOMMENDATION_
It is recommended Steves' letter not be acknowledged for reasons
set forth above.
