LOS ANGELES — Former “That ’70s Show” actor, Danny Masterson, has been sentenced to 30 years to life in prison for the rape of two women at his Hollywood Hills home over two decades ago. The sentencing was handed down by Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Charlaine Olmedo, causing Masterson’s wife, Bijou Phillips, to leave the courtroom without a word.
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Masterson received this sentence after being convicted on two of the three rape counts he faced during his retrial. Masterson, known for his role in the popular sitcom, did not testify in either trial and has consistently denied these allegations. During the sentencing, the victims and a former girlfriend who accused him of rape expressed their desire for a severe punishment.
In response to the sentencing, Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón commended the victims for their courage and expressed hope that it would bring them peace. Gascón emphasized the importance of holding those in influential positions accountable for their actions and preventing further harm to women.
Masterson’s defense lawyer, Shawn Holley, issued a statement asserting that they will continue to fight the conviction, believing that it was erroneous. Holley expressed confidence in the appeal process and the ability to overturn the verdict.
While Masterson’s first trial resulted in a mistrial, with jurors leaning towards acquittal, his retrial led to his conviction for two counts of rape. It is important to note that all three accusers were former members of the Church of Scientology, of which Masterson is also a member.
The attention surrounding these trials also shed light on the allegations of the Church of Scientology attempting to conceal these crimes. Although the court clarified that Scientology was not on trial, witnesses were allowed to testify about pressure from the church to refrain from reporting the rapes to the police.
In response to these allegations, a spokesperson for the Church of Scientology denied any involvement in covering up the crimes and emphasized the church’s commitment to abiding by the law.
Angela Yang and Diana Dasrath reported from Los Angeles. Corky Siemaszko reported from New York City.
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