Danny Masterson, known for his role in That ’70s Show, has been sentenced to 30 years to life in prison for two counts of rape that occurred in 2003.
Danny Masterson rape sentence: Here’s everything we know
California Superior Court Judge Charlaine F. Olmedo delivered the sentence and emphasised that Masterson’s actions had taken away another person’s choice and voice.
All of Masterson’s accusers were given the opportunity to provide impact statements during the hearing.
One victim stated:
“You relish in hurting women. It is your addiction. It is without question your favourite thing to do.”
As reported by Page Six, Leah Remini, a vocal critic of Masterson, was reportedly present at the sentencing.
The sentencing marks the culmination of a legal process that began when Masterson was found guilty of his crimes in May 2023.
This verdict came during a retrial after the first trial resulted in a hung jury in November 2022. In the recent trial, the jury agreed on two of the three counts, with the third count declared a mistrial and dismissed.
The three women who accused Masterson of sexual abuse reported incidents that occurred between 2001 and 2003.
All accusers were reportedly part of the Church of Scientology and initially hesitant to come forward due to alleged discouragement from the church about reporting crimes to the police.
However, they have since left the church.
During the second trial, testimony accused Masterson of drugging his victims before sexually assaulting them. One of the victims, an ex-girlfriend, claimed she had to physically resist him during the assault.
Masterson had previously entered a plea of not guilty in January 2021, with his attorney, Tom Mesereau, expressing confidence in his exoneration.
The actor, a Scientologist, has been married to actress Bijou Phillips since 2011.
Following his conviction, a source revealed that Phillips was shocked and devastated by the verdict and the immediate remand of Masterson into custody.
She allegedly felt terrified about his sentencing.
Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón praised the bravery of the three women who came forward, expressing gratitude for their courage.
He also emphasised the importance of consent, healthy relationships, and bystander intervention in creating a safer society.