[ESCAPE letterhead. Quote: "We have escaped like a bird out of the fowler's snare" Psalm 124:7]

STATEMENT BY: Bonnie Woods

ON BEHALF OF: The Fortune Family, County Wexford, Ireland

For some years, the Church of Scientology has been accusing me of being a violent deprogrammer involved in criminal activities such as kidnapping. This allegation is the subject of a libel action I have brought against the organisation. The repetition of this allegation once again is of no surprise to me. However, I am extremely concerned and distressed that Odran and his family appear to be being used by the Church of Scientology as pawns in its battle against me.

As was the case when these accusations were made in the past, there is no truth at all in these allegations.

I have advised the Fortune family and I will continue to provide them with support and guidance for as long as they ask me to. I have seen the huge amount of love and concern that they have for Odhran. Odran's sudden departure from Ireland in the company of members of the Church of Scientology and the barriers that the organisation has subsequently erected to prevent open communication with him have caused untold hurt and worry. My hope is that somehow the family can be reunited.

[Signature] date: 9th June, 1997