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[mefree]

http://suncoastpinellas.tbo.com/content/2009/aug/13/131416/clearwater-police-chief-sid-klein-announces-retire/news/

Meanwhile, Klein's stance toward the Church of Scientology softened over time, according to a 2001 Tribune story.

For years, Klein's department collected criminal intelligence on the church, mostly based on complaints regarding refunds sought by disgruntled members.

The often-strained relationship between Klein and the church reached its nadir with Lisa McPherson, a church member who died in December 1995 after a 17-day stay in the church's Fort Harrison Hotel. The church was leveled with criminal charges, which were later dropped.

But Scientologists went after Klein, accusing him of Gestapo tactics, suggesting he was associated with organized crime. And in 1997, Scientology supporters picketed the police station.

Information from Tribune archives was used in this report. Reporter Josh Poltilove contributed to this report.

[Lorelei]

Let's hope Clearwater gets a replacement (promoted-from-within?) Police Chief who is well-informed about the cult and their shenanigans.