This episode provides an overview of the content found in a partially redacted FBI file concerning Anton LaVey.
The file pertains to an alleged plot by a Satanic cult to assassinate Senator Edward Kennedy in October 1980. LaVey, identified as the founder and high priest of the Church of Satan, was contacted and interviewed by the FBI and U.S. Secret Service regarding this plot.
An individual, claiming to be Anton LaVey, contacted the Chicago office of the FBI and advised them of the plot. He further stated that he had been approached to deliver a "package" to an individual on Chicago's South Side. He was told that this package would contain instructions for the assassination and that its delivery constituted a payment towards the act.
Several investigations and background checks were conducted into both LaVey and the alleged plot. LaVey underwent multiple polygraph examinations, the results of which indicated deception on the part of LaVey regarding the assassination plot.
Despite the inconsistencies and evidence of deception, both the FBI and Secret Service concluded that the threat against Senator Kennedy originated in Chicago and that LaVey, who was residing in California at the time, had no intention of traveling to Chicago or partaking in the plot.
The FBI file reveals several other investigations involving LaVey and the Church of Satan. These included:
Threats against the Church of Satan: In 1975, the Church of Satan was the victim of bomb threats and threatening letters.
Acquisition of Property: In 1976, the Church of Satan acquired property in Ukiah, California. A member of the church was reported to carry weapons, including handguns, a double-barrel shotgun and a rifle.
Bomb Threat in San Francisco: In 1974, an unaddressed letter containing a bomb threat against buildings in San Francisco was found.
The file also includes inquiries from other law enforcement agencies, including the New South Wales Police in Australia, regarding LaVey and the Church of Satan.
While the FBI file contains many redactions, the available information suggests that Anton LaVey and the Church of Satan were subjects of several investigations. The nature and scope of these investigations are not fully clear due to redactions but appear to involve a range of issues including threats of violence, potential criminal activity, and concerns about the activities of satanic followers.
#9 FBI Vault: Anton LaVey & The Church of Satan