Welcome to the Sins of Scientology , where we peel back the layers of secrecy surrounding one of the world's most enigmatic organizations . I'm Sandi McKenna , your guide through the shadowy corridors of Scientology's past , joined by my co-host , A abraham Ulrich . Together , we uncover the hidden truths and dark tales that have remained shrouded in mystery .
In this episode , we delve into the life of Heber Jentzsch , a figure whose journey from the heart of Mormon Utah to the upper echelons of Scientology is as intriguing as it is unsettling . Born into a world of faith and strict moral codes , Heber's early years seemed destined for a path of righteousness , but fate had other plans .
Segment by segment , we unravel Heber's early years . Seemed destined for a path of righteousness , but fate had other plans . Segment by segment , we unravel Heber's transformation , from his beginnings as a devout Mormon , influenced by his father's academic stature at Brigham Young University , to his rise in the world of journalism and arts .
Heber's story is a mosaic of ambition and adaptation . Yet it is his deep plunge into Scientology that casts the longest shadow . As president of the Church of Scientology International , heber Jentsch became a master of media manipulation and public relations , defending the church through countless controversies .
But behind the scenes , his life was fraught with tension , secrecy and power struggles that would eventually lead to his dramatic fall from grace . Heber's personal life , marked with marriages to influential Scientologists , and the tragic tale of his son , alexander , add layers of complexity and sorrow to his story .
And then there was the hole , the infamous prison where Heber was reportedly confined , a place shrouded in allegations of abuse and coercion , a place that serves as a stark symbol of Scientology's darker side . Join us as we navigate through Heber Gentsch's serpentine journey , a tale of faith , power and betrayal . This is not just a story about a man .
It is a story about the lengths to which an organization will go to protect its secrets and the human cost of those secrets . Stay with us as we lift the veil on the story of Heber Gentsch , right here on the Sins of Scientology .
Heber Carl Gentsch was born on November 1935 , in Salt Lake City , utah . His upbringing was significantly shaped by the religious and culture environment of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints , the LDS Church , commonly known as the Mormon Church . Heber was never baptized into the LDS Church , but he still identified as a believing Mormon .
Baptized into the LDS Church , but he still identified as a believing Mormon . Heber's father , carl F Chunch , was an esteemed professor of arts and aesthetics at Brigham Young University , byu , a major institution affiliated with the LDS Church in Bravo , utah .
His connection to BYU and the LDS Church profoundly influenced Heber's early years , immersing him in a community deeply rooted in Mormon values and teachings . Growing up in a devoted Mormon family , heber was instilled with the principles and doctrines of the LDS Church from a young age .
The Mormon Church emphasizes family , community service and adherence to strict moral code , which would have been integral to Heber's childhood . Regular attendance at church services , participation in church-related activities and the influence of Mormon teachings on a daily life were likely constant during his formative years .
Heber's educational journey began in this religiously enriched environment . He attended local school in Salt Lake City , where his upbringing in a Mormon family would have been both a commonality and a cornerstone of his social and educational experiences . Heber attended Weber College in Ogden , utah .
In the University of Utah In 1959 , he earned a degree in communications and Eastern religion . His father's academic position may have also provided Heber with early exposure to the arts , aesthetics and the value of higher education . Given his father's role at BYU , heber may have had access to a wealth of cultural and intellectual resources .
This exposure could have sparked an early interest in communication , arts and public speaking skills he later utilized extensively in his career with Scientology . Salt Lake City , as the headquarter of the LDS Church , offered a unique cultural landscape .
Heber's upbringing in this city would have included participation in traditional Mormon practices such as attending the semi-annual General Conference , engaging in community service projects and possibly preparing for a mission , a coming rite of passage for young Mormon men .
The solid religious and moral framework provided by his Mormon upbringing likely influenced Heber's later decision and career path . While he eventually diverged significantly from the LDS church by joining Scientology , the communication skills , discipline and the values instilled in him during his early years remained evident throughout his life .
Heber's transition from a traditional Mormon upbringing to a prominent figure in Scientology is a testament to the complex interplay of his early experiences in the diverse paths his life would take .
The foundations laid during his formative years in Salt Lake City undoubtedly shaped his worldview , approach to leadership and the challenging and often controversial landscape of his later career .
Before becoming involved in Scientology , heber Jentsch worked in the arts and media , where he developed skills that would prove to be invaluable in his role within the Church of Scientology . Heber pursued higher education at the University of Utah , majoring in communications .
This academic background gave him a solid foundation in various aspects of media , including journalism , public relations and broadcasting . The University of Utah's communications program is known for offering a comprehensive curriculum covering theatrical and practical elements of media and communication , equipping students with the skills necessary for a variety of careers .
After completing his studies , gench put his education to the test , honing his writing , reporting and investigative skills . Heber had a keen eye for detail , an ability to communicate effectively and a dedication to uncovering what he saw as the truth , attributes that Gentsch would later carry into his role as spokesperson for Scientology .
Heber dipped his toe into the entertainment industry , perhaps with aspirations of becoming an actor . During the 1960s , heber had bit acting parts in a few notable television shows . He had a fleeting appearance as a German lieutenant back in 1965 in episode one of the TV series Combat , a war drama set during World War II .
He must have been convincing , because two years later , in 1967 , he was once again cast as a German SS lieutenant in episode one of the series Garrison's Gorillas , a group of convicts turned commandos during World War II . Additionally , he played Chet Nichols in the King of Empty Cups episode of the Mod Squad , which aired on January 20 , 1970 .
The Mod Squad was a counterculture police drama about three young undercover cops . His studies at the University of Utah and his bit-acting roles in notable TV shows laid the foundation for his later involvement in Scientology , where he would become a prominent figure .
Combining his education and experience in journalism , public relations and the arts gave Heber a unique skill set . He developed strong communication skills , deep understanding of media dynamics and the ability to manage public perception , all of which were crucial in his later work in Scientology .
His background in media and communications allowed him to adeptly handle the church's public relations , manage its interactions with the press and effectively communicate Scientology's messages to the public . This expertise was significant as Scientology often appeared in the public eye , facing scrutiny and controversy .
Heber Jenge joined the Church of Scientology in the late 1960s . This period was a time of significant expansion for Scientology , as it was establishing itself more firmly in the United States and internationally . Jentsch's entry into the church began a long and influential career within the organization .
In his own words , heber shares why he joined and believes in Scientology during this 1985 60 Minutes interview .
Now the thing is that there are millions of Scientologists who are very happy with Scientology Millions , millions and millions . Why ? Why ? Because it works . Because it's not something that is done to you , which is what psychiatry basically operates on . It is something you do something with . For me personally , I grew up in Utah .
I was one of the people who was a recipient of fallout from Yucca Flats . The wonderfulness of this government chose not to tell the doctors in the area what it was like to get radiation burns over your body from fallout which I got , and I almost died from burns over your body from fallout which I got and I almost died from .
Doctor didn't even know what it was . Had cortisone not been a brand new drug at the time , I would have died 24 hours later and for years and years I carried within me the aching bones and the sensation of enormous fatigue from that particular experience . It was Hubbard's technology which alleviated that for the first time in my life .
So I'm not a person who's going to be attacking L Ron Hubbard , and you will find there are others like me for different reasons . Million , I would say millions , yes , a mini-million .
Upon joining Scientology , gensh quickly rose through the ranks . His journalism and public relations background made him a valuable asset to the church . Often embroiled in public controversies and legal battles , he started taking on roles that involved managing the church's image and communicating its message to the public .
One of Gensh's early roles was within the Guardian's office , the church's intelligence and public relations arm . The Guardian's office handled legal affairs , public relations and other external activities to protect and promote Scientology . This experience allowed Gensh to deeply understand the church's strategy for dealing with external scrutiny and criticism .
In 1983 , heber Gensh was appointed president of the Church of Scientology International CSI . Csi serves as the central organization that oversees the activities of Scientology churches around the world . As president , gensh became the official spokesperson for the church , a role that required him to represent Scientology in various public and legal forums .
Here is another clip from the 1985 60 Minutes interview where we hear Gentsch in his role as a spokesperson for the church .
Adverse to his existence and what he's doing , mr Hubbard , unequivocally , has impacted this civilization , in my estimation , more greatly than anyone I've ever met . Why has he not met you , you him ? Why has he become ? Why is he a recluse ? No , I think he's a man , as they decided in the Riverside Court that he has a right to privacy .
It's America , this is not Russia and he has a right to privacy . This man is is concerned with research on the areas of the human spirit . He's done it his whole life . It's been his life's work to assist people and he's chosen to take a little sabbatical and do that and to continue writing .
You know that he has bestsellers on the bestseller lists last year all over the country , all over the world . When is it very well public ? When did he last appear in public ?
Oh , I would say it was probably four or five years ago when , california , he was doing films in California , shooting films for the Church of Scientology , a number of people working with him . Is it conceivable that you would make him available or he might become available for this broadcast ? I wouldn't want Mr Hubbard . I can't speak for him .
First of all , I don't think he'd be interested . I don't think this is a show that's concerned with religion that much , and I don't think it's a show in which I think when Mr Hubbard decides Mr Wallace to make an appearance , it's going to be a much larger appearance than something like 60th anniversary .
As the president of CSI , gentsch was heavily involved in the church's public relation efforts . He frequently appeared in the media to defend Scientology against allegations of abuse , fraud and other misconduct . His ability to articulate the church's position and counteract negative publicity was key to Scientology's strategy to maintain its public image .
Gensh's role also involved intense travel to represent the church at international events , conferences and legal proceedings . He played a significant part in Scientology's efforts to gain recognition as a religion in various countries , which often involved complex legal and political negotiations .
Gensh was at the forefront of many of Scientology's legal battles throughout his tenure . The church faced numerous lawsuits and investigations during this period , particularly in the United States and Europe . Gensh's responsibilities included managing these legal challenges and working to mitigate their impact on the Church's operation and reputation .
One of the most notable legal cases during his tenure was the Operation Snow White scandal , in which the church was found to have infiltrated various government agencies to purge unfavorable records . Although this scandal primarily involved the Guardian's office , it had widespread implication for the church and required significant PR efforts to address the fallout .
As the president of the Church of Scientology International , or CSI , heber was the church's primary representative on the global stage . His role required extensive travel to various countries to attend international events , conferences and legal proceedings .
Through his efforts , heber worked to promote Scientology , defend against criticism and seek official recognition as a legitimate religion . Heber attended numerous international events and conferences where he spoke about Scientology's beliefs , practices and societal contributions .
These appearances were designed to present a positive image of Scientology and to counteract negative perceptions . For example , heber participated in a conference on religious freedom and human rights , arguing that Scientology should be afforded the same legal protections and recognition as the other religious groups .
One notable example was his participation in the International Association of Scientologists' IAS annual events . At these gatherings , held in various locations worldwide , heber delivered speeches highlighting Scientology's growth , achievements and efforts to combat human rights abuses .
These events were attended by Scientologists from numerous countries and were a platform for reinforcing the Church's global unity and mission . Heber played a pivotal role in Scientology's legal battles in multiple countries . These efforts often involved complex legal and political negotiations aimed at securing recognition for Scientology as a bona fide religion .
Here are some detailed examples of his involvement . In Germany , scientology faced significant opposition , with authorities viewing it as a commercial enterprise rather than a religion . Heber actively advocated for the church's recognition and countering claims of its anti-democratic activities .
He engaged with German officials , participated in public debates and provided testimony in legal proceedings . Despite these efforts , germany continues to scrutinize Scientology , reflecting the challenges Heber faced in altering entrenched perceptions . France was another battleground where Scientology sought recognition as a religion .
The French government classified Scientology as a sect , subjecting it to financial and legal scrutiny . Heber worked to challenge this classification , representing Scientology in court cases and engaging in public relations campaigns to shift public opinion . His advocacy included highlighting Scientology's charitable activities and contributions to social causes .
Heber's efforts were more successful in Spain . After a prolonged legal battle , the National Court of Spain recognized Scientology as a religion in 2007 .
Heber's role included overseeing the legal strategy , engaging with Spanish legal experts and presenting arguments emphasizing Scientology's religious nature and alignment with the principles of religious freedom enshrined in Spanish law . The UK also posed challenges , with Scientology initially being denied recognition as a religion .
Heber's involvement included lobbying efforts , legal challenges and public relations campaigns . His work contributed to the landmark decision in 2013 , when the UK Supreme Court ruled that Scientology's chapel in London could be registered as a place of worship , thus granting the church the recognition it had long sought with government officials and policymakers .
His approach often involved framing Scientology within the border context of religious freedom and human rights . By aligning Scientology's cause with these universally accepted principles , he were aimed to garner support from international organizations and human rights advocates .
For instance , he engaged with the United Nations , human Rights Council and other international bodies to present Scientology's case as one of religious persecution . The strategy was intended to apply pressure on governments that were hostile to Scientology and build alliances with other religious and human rights groups .
Hiberjentz's extensive travel and representation efforts significantly impacted Scientology's global standing . While he faced substantial opposition and numerous legal setbacks , his work also led to important victories that advanced Scientology's recognition and legitimacy in several countries .
His legacy in that area is marked by the challenges he encountered and his progress in advocating for Scientology on the world stage . These efforts were far from smooth sailing , though .
Heber Jentz was arrested in Spain in 1988 , along with 69 other Scientologists , and it became an international incident Protested by the Church of Scientology through any means they could think of to try to get Heber out of jail .
Twenty-three leaders of the LA-based Church of Scientology are still in custody in Spain tonight , nine of them ordered to jail on charges of swindling Spaniards out of money they paid for drug rehabilitation . Jane Wells talked to Scientologists in Hollywood tonight as they try to get information about their jailed leader .
This is Alexander Jentz , and he is here with me tonight because his father is not here . His father is in a jail in Madrid , spain .
Scientologists believe . Church President Jentz and other members have been arrested in Spain because their drug rehabilitation efforts there have worked too well .
Obviously we have cut across , with a drug rehabilitation program that is working and is expanding in Spain , some vested interest .
It is interested in drug proliferation and drug addiction 71 church members were arrested Saturday at a meeting as police investigate them for fraud , extortion and tax evasion . Most have been released , but not Jens , a former actor who's been with the church 25 years .
We stand for religious liberty . We stand for those freedoms .
Scientologists charge that their people are being mistreated in Spanish jails . They say they're being denied blankets and mattresses and forced to drink dirty water and eat only cookies for meals . The church was founded in the 50s by author L Ron Hubbard . Its purpose To free the soul through knowledge . But some former members say the reality is much more sinister .
Hannah Eltringham says she was put in a virtual prison camp for a year when the church perceived she had evil intentions .
We had to run . Everywhere we went we had to run , whether it was carrying pails of sand or concrete up ten flights of steps for building purposes , we had to run .
The church continues to deny such charges , saying it is being harassed by governments around the world . Meanwhile , the Spanish judge will determine within 24 hours what charges , if any , will be made against Jentz and those remaining in jail with him .
Jane Wells Fox News . Jentz and those remaining in jail with him . Jane Wells Fox News . After three weeks of incarceration , heber was granted bail of a million dollars and fled the country immediately , never to return .
It wasn't until 2002 that the charges were dropped and the bond money returned . Heber Jentz married Australian Scientologist Yvonne Gillam after her divorce from Peter Gillam . One of the top lecturers on the subject of Scientology , yvonne Gillam Gensh was the founder of the Celebrity Centre for the Church of Scientology and grew it to more than 200 staff .
They married from 1972 until her death from cancer in 1978 . In her book Commodore's Messenger A Child Adrift in the Sea Organization , her daughter , janice Gillum Grady , recalls Tragically upon mom's arrival in Clearwater she was sequestered to a room with a few to no visitors .
She could no longer work , so she was considered a malingerer and someone not pulling their weight . Only my stepfather , heber Jench , my father , peter Gillum , and my sister Terry Gamboa , who had to sneak away to Florida from California , had a chance to say goodbye . Her illness , as well as her ultimate death , was considered bad PR for Scientology .
I could not shake the feeling of betrayal . The lies about her condition , the cover-ups and how others prevented me from knowing what really happened just held my grief in place . This marriage preceded his more publicly known relationship with Karen de la Carriere . Karen was a prominent figure within the Church of Scientology and one of its highly trained auditors .
The couple's relationship united two influential Scientologists , further solidifying their roles within the organization . Their marriage was a notable union within the church , giving Karen's significant contributions and standings within Scientology's hierarchy .
Born in England , she became involved with Scientology in the 1960s and quickly rose through the ranks due to her dedication and skills . Karen was trained directly by Scientology's founder , l Ron Hubbard and became one of the few individuals to attain the highest level of auditing and training within the church , known as a class 7 auditor .
This elite status made her a highly influential figure within Scientology's internal structure . Karen de la Carriere and Heber Gensh's marriage was a significant union within Scientology . Both were influential in their own rights , heber as the president of the Church of Scientology International and Karen as the top auditor and trainer .
Their marriage symbolized the powerful alliance within the church , merging their respective spheres of influence . Karen's contributions were primarily within Scientology's internal operations . She served aboard the flagship Apollo and was trained by LRH to the level of Class 7 Auditor CS , one of the only seven LRH ever made .
As a Class 7 Auditor , she delivered advanced auditing sessions and trained other auditors . Her work involved helping members reach higher levels of spiritual awareness and clearing the psychological barriers believed to impede their progress . Karen's expertise and dedication earned her a respected place in the church's hierarchy .
The marriage between Heber and Karen was notable for several reasons . Both were highly visible and respected within Scientology , with intensive contributions to the church's growth and operations . Their marriage represented the coming together of two powerful entities within the organization .
Together , they yielded significant influence over both the public perception and internal workings of Scientology . Heber's public relations skills and Karen's auditing expertise made them a formidable team . Their relationship provided mutual support in their demanding role .
Karen's work as an auditor was complemented by Heber's efforts to defend and promote Scientology publicly , creating a strong partnership within the church . The couple eventually separated and Karen the lecarrier left the Church of Scientology .
Her departure was met with severe repercussion due to the church's policy of disconnection , which mandates cutting off all ties with those deemed suppressive persons , or SPs . This policy led her to estrangement from Heber and other church members , including her son Alexander . After leaving Scientology , karen became one of its most vocal critics .
She has shared her experiences and exposed various practices within the church , mainly focusing on its policies regarding disconnection and treatment of members . Her outspoken stance has brought significant attention to the challenges and controversies surrounding Scientology .
Karen de la Carriere continues to be an active critic of Scientology , using her platform to advocate for those affected by the church's practices . She has provided insight into the inner workings of Scientology and highlighted the personal costs of his policies on family relationships .
In 2004 , heber Jentsch fell out of favor with David Miscavige , the Trooch's leader . As a result , he was sent to the Hole , an office prison at Scientology's international base in Los Angeles . The Hole was notorious for its harsh conditions and was initially called the A2E room before being renamed .
The Hole is described as a facility with barred windows and doors where around 60 to 100 high-ranking Scientology executives , including both men and women , were confined . They could leave only to shower , and their time was otherwise spent in intense training and confessions .
The conditions were squalid and detainees sleeping on cots , floors and desktops in extremely crowded rooms . Meals consisted of some standard food referred to as slop . Punishments in the whole included humiliation and physical abuse . Executives were sometimes forced to play games like musical chairs when the stakes were high .
Losers were threatened with expulsion from the church and separation from their families . Reports from former members , such as Mike Rinder , indicate that violence and coercion were common , with detainees subjected to beatings and other forms of abuse to extract confessions and demonstrate loyalty .
The harsh treatment was part of a broader pattern of discipline with Scientology , where perceived disobedience or incompetence could result in confinement . In the whole , miscavige's leadership style was marked by such extreme measures , which he justified as necessary for maintaining control and enforcing discipline within the organization .
Despite the Church's denials of the hole's existence , numerous accounts from former Scientologists and investigative reports have detailed its reality and severe conditions endured by those confined . David Gench told Tony Ortega of the Village Voice on July 20 , 2012 , that the last time he spoke to his brother , heber , was around 2009 .
At that time , he urged his brother to break out of Scientology's international base near Hemet , california . Heber said I don't think I can ever get out of here . His brother told him you have to try . And the last thing he said to him was I'll never get out of here alive . Since that time , workers at the base have refused his calls .
David Gent said they won't let me talk to him . Heber just lost his son , alexander . I called and told them I'd like to talk to my brother about this . They told me you can't come , we don't want you here . David Jench told them he'd go down there and they'd have to let him see Heber .
But they said Heber is not going to be able to talk to you , so it's best you just don't come . David didn't know that his brother had been let out of the base for a rare trip to Los Angeles to attend his son's memorial . Heber has rarely been cited in public since 2004 .
In 2006 , miscavige did let Heber out of the hole for one final stage appearance at the Maiden Voyage event . According to Tizanio Lugli , an Italian musician and former Scientologist , he saw Heber Jentsch at Isaac Hayes' funeral in 2008 . Heber hasn't attended any Scientology events . He hasn't answered any communication and he is unavailable to the media .
Karen and Heber Gensch had one son , Alexander Gensch , born on November 26 , 1984 . Alexander was deeply involved in Scientology from a young age , reflecting his parents' high-level involvement . He participated in various Scientology programs and was raised within the church's doctrines and practices .
Alexander's upbringing was heavily influenced by Scientology and he spent most of his early life in Scientology environment , including the Sea Organization , a dedicated group of the church's most committed members . As a child , Alexander Gensch was raised as Scientology royalty . When Alex was around 11 or 12 years old , he was recruited to join the Sea Org organization .
Sea Org members live and work communally , often under strict conditions and with significant demands of their time and loyalty to the church . With his father still part of the Sea Org , Alexander joined them , hoping he could see his father more often .
Instead , Alexander was shipped to Scientology's largest church facility in Clearwater , Florida , called the Flag Services Organization , where he did estates work , mainly cleaning . His parents remained in California . Alexander Jench only saw his father 11 times in 15 years , a fact repeated countless times by children of Sea Org parents .
He used to call himself the boy without a dad . Let's examine this clip from a news reporter talking to Karen Delacarriere about Alexander .
Only saw he were 11 times in the last 15 years of his life . We're talking about your husband at the time . Yes . Okay , and he wanted to join the Sea Org so that he they promised him . The recruiter said don't you want to see your father ? He's Sea Org . You'll be Sea Org . It was all a scam .
So Alexander joined at eight years old and I have only myself to blame . I went through horror and torture in the Sea Org . I should have known better , but I was messed up . Alex , I really was Allison . I'm much more savvy now .
As a 12-year-old boy with little formal education and under the care of random adults at Flag , alex had no real exposure to the outside world or the dangers of sexual predation . Alexander was found to be having sexual intercourses at the age of 12 at the FLAG land base with a 40-year-old woman in the Office of Special Affairs .
Once this became well-known within the organization , and to avoid a potential PR nightmare , alexander was sent to the Continental Liaison Office , or CLO West US .
This was the management body for Scientology in the western United States and had many other functions , including estates , work for the entire Big Blue facility , running the numerous Scientology events which occur several times a year , which occurs several times a year .
By the 1990s , alexander was running the Boiler Room , aka Phone Bank , which contacted local Scientologists by phone and email to get them confirmed to come to these events , and he did this for years . Alexander married Andrea Kavan .
Both Alexander and Andrea were members of the Sea Organization Scientology's clergy , but they left in 2010 when Andrea became pregnant , though she later miscarried . They lived for a while in Glendale , california , but eventually moved to Dallas , where Alexander took a job in sales at a Scientology-owned company .
Soon it became clear that Alex's sheltered and cloistered life had ill-prepared him and Andrea for living in the real world . His relationship with Andrea reportedly became a strain during this time . In the early 2000s , alexander's mother , karen , was disillusioned with Scientology .
She began posting anonymously online about Scientology , the Sea Org and her own experiences under the anonymous name War and Peace . In 2010 , she was declared a suppressive person . Alexander was forced to disconnect with his mother when she left Scientology In the last two years of his life . Alexander was cut off from both his parents .
At some point during this time , alex got into a car accident in Dallas and was put on Oxycontin , a heavy-duty painkiller for back pain . From the limited information we found , it appears that Alex has substance abuse issues as a result of this prescribed medication . He received the methadone prescription .
While the drug is prescribed to help heroin addicts with withdrawals , it's also prescribed for acute pain . After losing his job in Dallas , alexander returned to Los Angeles the last week of June to live with his in-laws . He developed a head cold on the trip back and began to take over-the-counter medications .
Unfortunately , this developed into pneumonia , something neither Alex nor his in-laws recognized as serious At this point . Alex was still having trouble breathing and was running a fever .
Rather than taking Alex to a hospital or calling a doctor , scientology decides to deal with this by calling none other than Stan Gershon an OT-8 , to give him a touch assist for his inability to breathe . That's right no hospital , no doctor . They called an OT-8 to give him a touch assist for pneumonia . On July 2nd at 9 am , alex's in-laws saw him asleep .
Twelve hours later , around 9 pm , alex still hadn't moved , but no one bothered to check in on him . Tragically , on the morning of July 3rd , alexander's father-in-law checked in on him and found him unresponsive . He then took his child to school , returned home and only then called 911 . Let's examine this clip from ABC7 News' report of the incident .
Questions being raised now about the mysterious death of a 27-year-old Southern California man , new at 11, . Eyewitness News reporter Leanne Suter joins us with more details about the unusual twists in this case . Leanne Mark , the LA County Coroner's Office is investigating the mysterious death of 27-year-old Andrew Alexander Jench .
He was found dead inside a Sylmar home July 3rd , but why still remains a mystery . A moving tribute at sea from mother to son for Alexander Gench , posted on YouTube by family and friends . The 27-year-old's mysterious death now being investigated after he was found dead at his in-law's Sylmar home . But it was hours before anyone called 911 .
The LA County Coroner's Office says Alexander's in-laws saw the 27-year-old asleep in his bed on Monday , july 2nd around 9 am . Twelve hours later , around 9 pm , he hadn't moved , but no one checked on him . The next morning his father-in-law did check and found Alexander unresponsive . The father-in-law took a child to school .
When he returned home he finally called 911 .
In this particular case , there was some information that we received that we were looking into , along with the fact that we've had other family members provide information or question his death .
Can we talk to you guys about Alexander ? No one at the in-laws' home would talk to us about Alexander's death . The 27-year-old's father is Hebergench , the president of the Church of Scientology International .
Hebergench hasn't been seen in public for years , but at the height of his influence in the church he was often seen in the company of high-profile members like John Travolta . Alexander's mother , karen de la Carriere , left the church and says her son then disconnected from her .
Disconnected is a term Scientologists use to describe the decision to cut themselves off from loved ones who leave the church . She says when her son died she wasn't allowed to see his body and has many questions about his death .
Why give the coroner smoke and mirrors and blame it all on Alexander ? He was drinking , he was history of over self-medicating , he did this , he did that . Oh , come on , it smells to high heaven .
Now the coroner's office says an autopsy has been completed , but investigators are awaiting toxicology results before determining an exact cause of death . Leehan Suter , abc7 Eyewitness News .
It's been reported that his in-laws made calls to OSA the Office of Special Affairs after they found him unresponsive , but before they called 911 . His mother was shocked when she received a call from a stranger to let her know that Alexander had been found dead in his bed in the morning of July 3rd 2012 .
She would later learn the name of this stranger , aaron Smith Levin , in Chris Shelton's video Alexander Gensch A Scientology Tragedy in 3X . He presented the following audio from Ed Winter , assistant Chief of Investigations from the Los Angeles Coroner's Office I was the Assistant Chief .
I still am Assistant Chief of Investigations . I oversee all the death investigations in LA County and especially the high-profile celebrities and politicians or whatever . On July 3rd we were advised of a death at a private residence in Selmar in the 13,700 block of Oro Grande Street .
According to the law enforcement who reported , it is that the decedent was last known to be alive by his in-laws when they left the residence for the day . When they returned later he appeared to be in bed sleeping .
That was on the 2nd and on July 3rd about 7.30 , the decedent was found unresponsive in his bed by his father-in-law during a welfare check in his bed by his father-in-law during a welfare check . The father-in-law did not call for paramedics , however , took his son to school and then returned home and called paramedics . They responded and pronounced him deceased .
The decedent was Alexander Jentz . We sent an investigator , responded and he was transported back to our office . There was an at-scene investigation and an autopsy performed and that's what our initial investigation was about .
Well , number one , when you have a 27-year-old male that passes away and it's reported that he had some sort of an accident and was over-medicating due to a traffic accident , we wanted to find out some additional information and possibly medical history .
And he was driven out from Texas to California and , according to the father-in-law , he complained of a having a head cold which he took over-the-counter medication . So if you're taking over over-the-counter medication along with back pain medication , there can be a reaction .
However , we weren't able to you connect the dots , so to speak , and supposedly when the paramedics were there , medication was uncounted for , unaccounted for . So we did have questions . It also was strange that his father-in-law would drive instead of calling paramedics .
In law would drive instead of calling paramedics when somebody's in distress or unresponsive , why they'd leave , drive the kid to school , a child to school , and then return sometime later . Found him at 7.30 and came back at 8.23 . That's a long time . Back at 823 , that's a long time .
So there was some questions and then his mother contacted us , contacted me , and was providing information , additional information on his personal medical issues and other issues . We were able to do an investigation . We found that after the autopsy he had acquired pneumonia and was using methadone and took some additional drugs .
A couple , couple things His wife and him are separated , his wife is not there at the house and he's staying with his father-in-law . Then , as this investigation proceeded . We reached out to the Church of Scientology and got no response .
Tried to talk to the wife and when we called the house the father-in-law would say ìSheís not there , sheís unavailable , and she wouldnít talk to usî . And then I was contacted by an attorney for the church that wanted to have information removed from the report . You know , sometimes we get that .
But we had this attorney that complained that the mother is making allegations and posting on the Internet that Jeff did not call paramedics right away and she requested a sentence be changed in the report as it is not accurate . And we told her hey , the report stands as is .
I know that during the initial part of the investigation we attempted to have Riverside County sheriffs make contact with his father to notify him and the sheriffs called us . They went out to Gold Base and were not granted entry and we're told that they would notify Mr Jentz about his son's death .
The toxicology report states that Alex had a mixture of medications in his system at the time of his death . At the scene as well , officers recovered an assortment of medication . Well , officers recovered an assortment of medication including meloxicam and gabapentin , hydrocodone , acetaminophen , methadone , prilosec , sudafed and Vixniquel .
Had Alex gone to an emergency room or taken to a doctor for his fever and other symptoms and diagnosed correctly , it could have saved his life .
You know , I might be one of the few people in the world that found out that my son was dead by a Facebook message from a stranger .
My 27-year-old son was lying in the Los Angeles morgue , a dead body with a toe tag , and the Church of Scientology that I slaved for and contributed to for 35 years did not pick up the phone and tell me that my son was dead .
His mother was not allowed to see her son one last time , nor did she receive any of his ashes . She held the memorial for Alexander aboard a yacht off the coast of California . Let's examine this clip from Karen De La Carrier speaking about her son at his memorial service .
Alexander . Many people have said what was Alexander like and I think this story will tell you what Alexander was like . When I came out of the Sea Organization in 1990 , alexander was six years old and we were watching a CNN show where these Mexican orphans were in a landfill looking for rubbish to sell for two cents to eat and Alexander was horrified .
He was only six years old but he forced me to drive him to Tijuana , south of San Diego two and a half hours there and back to give the Mexican children his old toys and money and clothes . We had a glorious day .
We went to two Tijuana orphanages and we gave from our hearts money and toys and Alexander hugged these orphans and I thought to myself he's only six years old and he cares for third-world country orphans and I realized Alexander had a big heart .
His father , old and frail at the time of Alexander's death , was living at Scientology's Gold Base in Hemet , California . During the initial part of the investigation , Edward Winter at the LA coroner's office said they attempted to have the Riverside Sheriff's Office make contact with Heber to notify him of Alexander's passing .
The sheriffs went out to Gold Base and were not granted entry . They were told that they would notify Mr Gensch of his son's death .
Thank you for joining us on this deep dive into the life of Heber Gensch , a man whose journey from devout Mormon to a central figure in Scientology reveals the complex and often dark intersections of faith , power and control .
From his early years shaped by the teachings of the LDS Church to his ascent in the world of journalism and acting , and ultimately to his controversial tenure as the president of the Church of Scientology International , heber's story is one of ambition and adaptability , yet it is also a tale marked by personal tragedy and power struggles and a dramatic fall from grace
. We've explored the significant chapters of his life , from the pivotal role in Scientology's public relations efforts to the harsh realities of his confinement in the hole . We delved into the heartbreaking story of his son , alexander , whose life and untimely death cast a haunting shadow over Huber's legacy .
Huber Gensche's life is a testament to the powerful and often perilous journey within Scientology's ranks . It serves as a stark reminder of the human cost associated with the pursuit of power and control within secretive organizations .
As we close on this episode , we reflect on the intricate web of Heber's life , a story that continues to resonate within the annals of Scientology's history . The complexities and controversies surrounding his story are emblematic of the broader issues that we continue to explore in this series .
Next time , on the Sins of Scientology , we delve into the tragic and deeply unsettling case of Lisa McPherson , a dedicated Scientologist whose untimely death raised alarming questions about the church's practices and internal policies .
Join us as we explore and uncover the haunting story of Lisa McPherson , from her journey within Scientology to the mysterious circumstances leading toward her death and the ensuing legal battles that exposed the controversial methods of this organization , a story that still today continues to echo in the halls of Scientology and beyond .
Don't miss this gripping and heartbreaking story . Until next time , keep questioning , keep seeking , and may your journey be as rich and enlightening as the stories you encounter .