Lawrence A. Wollersheim is an ex-Scientologist. He brought a case against the Church of Scientology in 1980. In the course of this case, the story of Xenu came to public light.

Wollersheim joined Scientology in 1969, signing the Sea Org's "billion-year" contract to serve the church. Wollersheim claimed to have been held captive in the hold of a ship docked off California for 18 hours a day, what he called a "thought reform gulag". He was also denied necessary medical treatment, as per the Church's policies. ^*

Wollersheim was compelled to abandon his wife and his family through the policy of disconnection. Finally, when Wollersheim was able to leave the Church, it subjected him to financial ruin through its policy of "Fair Game". In their appeal, The Church of Scientology asserted that "Fair Game" was a "core practice of Scientology", and therefore protected as "religious expression". This was also stated by Scientology attorneys in the case against Gerald Armstrong, in 1984, by religious expert Dr. Frank Flinn. ^*

In 1986, a jury awarded Wollersheim $5 million in compensatory damages and $25 million to punish the church for what jurors called intentional and negligent "infliction of emotional distress." On appeal, however, this was reduced to $2.5 million. Scientology officials vowed never to pay, and the phrase "not one thin dime for Wollersheim," was chanted by Scientologists at court hearings. ^*

After over 20 years of legal battling, the Church admitted liability for the judgement against them with interest. The money was finally paid on May 9, 2002. Leiby, Richard (May 10, 2002). "Ex-Scientologist Collects $8.7 Million In 22-Year-Old Case". Washington Post, p. A03.

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