The project is partially funded by the Church of Scientology-based Foundation for Advancements in Science and Education. The project was co-founded by movie star and Scientology member Tom Cruise.

But Shurtleff noted the program received money from many sources and that the project's board consisted of people from many religious denominations. This project should not be viewed as a Scientology center, he said.

"I wouldn't be involved in anyway if I thought it was a Scientology recruitment program," he said.

In fact, people who already have cancer are not allowed to particpate until their cancer is in remission. The detox program is not meant to act as a kind of alternative medicine, Shurtleff said.

After the presentation, several officers approached Shurtleff saying they would be interested in traveling to New York to receive the treatment.

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