June 9
7 p.m.
Cinefamily
“The Rise and Fall of Synanon” is a new documentary detailing Charles Dederich’s drug rehabilitation center Synanon, located in Santa Monica in the 1960s. Shortly after its creation, the center became a cult for some members. It was eventually shut down in 1989 due to criminal allegations and other scandals. Paul Morantz, the attorney who prosecuted Synanon, will talk after the screening. Tickets, $12, and more information online. Cinefamily, 611 N Fairfax Ave. and Clinton.
This organization was not only corrupt morally and ethically-it was sadistic to minors. I witnessed many acts of extreme violence and talked to other kids about the sexual abuse that occurred there. I was 14 when I was involuntarily inducted into this sick cult in 1976. I now suffer from PTSD as a direct result of my experiences there. Ironically, I now have a prescription for medical marijuana. I sure would like to know where ced is buried so I could piss on his grave.
People, beware of scientology as they are a violent cult also.
where can this movie be seen?
The organization was shut down by the IRS after deciding that Synanon’s tax exempt status should be revoked.