Actor Danny Masterson Convicted of Forcible Rape Charges and May Face 30 Years in Jail

Actor Danny Masterson, known for his roles in “That ’70s Show” and “The Ranch,” was convicted of three counts of forcible rape by a Los Angeles County Superior Court jury on June 23rd, 2021. He is facing up to 45 years in prison for these charges.

The Accusations

The allegations against Masterson date back to 2001 and 2003, where he was accused of raping three women at his Hollywood Hills home. The women, all in their 20s at the time, were fellow members of the Church of Scientology, as Masterson is a devout member.

The women claimed that Masterson drugged them by lacing their drinks with powerful sedatives and then violently assaulted them while they were unconscious. One of the women said she woke up to find Masterson raping her, while another said she was dragged by her hair across the room and raped.

The Criminal Case

Masterson was charged with three counts of forcible rape in June 2020 after a three-year investigation by the LAPD. However, the charges were initially dropped by the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office in 2019, which caused public backlash and questions about why this happened. The charges were refiled after the evidence was reviewed by new prosecutors.

During the trial, the three women testified, along with two other women who claimed that Masterson also sexually assaulted them. Masterson pleaded not guilty to all charges and his attorneys argued that the sex was consensual.

The Verdict

After a three-week trial, the jury found Masterson guilty of three counts of forcible rape. The verdict was read aloud in a Los Angeles courtroom on June 23rd, 2021.

Masterson faces up to 45 years in prison but may receive a sentencing of only 30 years. The formal sentencing is set for September 2021.

Impact on the Industry

Masterson’s conviction has once again brought attention to the issue of sexual assault and harassment in Hollywood. Many in the industry have been accused of similar crimes, and this conviction sends a message that these actions will not be tolerated.

The verdict has also sparked conversation about the Church of Scientology’s role in Masterson’s actions and the way the church treats victims of sexual assault. Two of the three women who testified against Masterson were reportedly subjected to harassment and intimidation tactics from the church.

The Importance of Justice for Survivors

This conviction is a major victory for survivors of sexual assault, as it sends a message that their voices will be heard and their abusers will be held accountable for their actions. It also highlights the importance of engaging in an honest conversation about the way we treat survivors and the support they need to come forward.

Conclusion

Danny Masterson’s conviction is a landmark moment for the #MeToo movement and for survivors seeking justice. The verdict sends a clear message that sexual assault and rape will not be tolerated, no matter who the perpetrator is. It’s important to remember that we all have a role to play in creating a safe and supportive environment for survivors, and we must hold those who commit these crimes accountable for their actions.

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