‘That ’70s Show’ actor Danny Masterson has been sentenced to 30 years to life in prison after being found guilty of two counts of rape by a Los Angeles jury. The decision was made during a retrial in May, where Masterson was found guilty of two out of three counts of forcible rape. The third count resulted in a mistrial and has been dropped by prosecutors who will not pursue further charges.
Judge Charlaine Olmedo delivered the sentence and emphasized that Masterson was not the victim in this case, stating, “Your actions 20 years ago took away another person’s choice and voice. Your actions 20 years ago today were criminal, and that’s why you are here.” Victim impact statements were given by all three women involved in the trial, with two reading their statements aloud in court and the third having hers read by a prosecutor.
Masterson’s former girlfriend, referred to as Jane Doe 1, expressed regret for not reporting the incidents to the police earlier. Jane Doe 2 directly addressed Masterson, accusing him of relishing in the harm caused to women and forgiving him while urging him to use his time in prison to educate himself. Masterson’s ex-girlfriend detailed the physical and mental toll the abuse had taken on her, leading to debilitating ailments such as anxiety.
Masterson’s lawyer stated that the actor would not be speaking in court and requested a 15-year concurrent sentence. Masterson’s wife, Bijou Phillips, was present in the courtroom, visibly upset during the hearing. Actress Leah Remini, who has been critical of Masterson and the Church of Scientology, was also in attendance. The retrial was ordered after the original trial resulted in a mistrial due to a deadlocked jury.
Throughout the retrial, the prosecution portrayed Masterson as a serial rapist who received protection from the Church of Scientology, to which Masterson and his family belong. They alleged that Masterson drugged his victims before the assaults, although no drug-related charges were brought against him. Masterson’s defense team did not call any witnesses, presenting the acts as consensual and questioning the credibility of the accusers.
Masterson has been in custody since the verdict was announced in May, as he was considered a potential flight risk.
If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse or is involved in an abusive situation, please seek help from the Canadian Resource Centre for Victims of Crime.
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