Danny Masterson: In a significant legal development, actor Danny Masterson, best known for his role in “That ’70s Show,” has been sentenced to 30 years to life in prison for the rape of two women. This verdict comes after a prolonged legal battle that has been both challenging and emotionally taxing for the victims.
District Attorney George Gascón released a statement acknowledging the resilience of the survivors, saying, “This has been a long and difficult journey for Mr. Masterson’s victims. They not only endured his abuse but also navigated a system that has historically not favored victims.”
Masterson, who is associated with the Church of Scientology, rose to fame through the popular sitcom that aired from 1998 to 2006. His legal troubles began in 2017 when allegations of sexual misconduct surfaced, leading to an investigation by the LAPD. You may also read Emotional Exit Danielle Harold’s Heartfelt National.
In June 2020, he was formally charged with raping three women, including his former girlfriend, between 2001 and 2003 at his Hollywood Hills residence. All three women had connections to the Church of Scientology.
The conviction hinged on the testimonies of three women who recounted instances of sexual assault at Masterson’s Hollywood home during the peak of his television career. The jury heard that he had administered drugs before these assaults took place.
Masterson was found guilty of rape against two of the three accusers, with the charges related to the third accuser resulting in a mistrial. Prosecutors have confirmed that they do not intend to retry the case.
Alison Anderson, a lawyer representing two of the victims, praised their strength and bravery for coming forward and actively participating in two demanding criminal trials. She emphasized their determination to hold a sexual predator accountable.
During the trial, prosecutors alleged that the Church of Scientology had played a role in concealing the assaults, an accusation vehemently denied by the organization. At the time of the incidents, all parties involved, including Masterson and the accusers, were affiliated with Scientology. Some of the victims disclosed that they refrained from reporting the rapes due to pressure from Scientology officials.
Notably, one survivor claimed that she was coerced into signing a non-disclosure agreement and accepting a $400,000 payment, effectively silencing her.
Throughout the legal proceedings, Judge Olmedo allowed discussions regarding the doctrines and practices of Scientology, which drew the ire of the organization.
In a post-sentencing statement, Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón commended the women for their courage in coming forward and participating in the legal process. He expressed hope that this sentence would bring them some semblance of peace and serve as an example to others.
Shawn Holley, one of Masterson’s legal representatives, affirmed that the legal battle was far from over. You should also check Ex-Proud Boys leader Enrique.
It’s worth noting that the case against Masterson began in 2021 when the Los Angeles Superior Court found sufficient evidence following the testimonies of the three women. The first trial ended in a mistrial in November 2022, while the second trial resulted in his conviction for the offenses against two women.
This case predates the #MeToo movement and the high-profile Harvey Weinstein scandal, shedding light on sexual abuse and misconduct within the entertainment industry. The survivors’ stories have continued to inspire others to come forward, and it marks a significant step towards ensuring that Hollywood is no longer a hunting ground for those who believe they can prey on women with impunity.
