Danny Masterson, star of the sitcom “That ’70s Show,” has been found guilty of two counts of rape. Jurors for his retrial decided he was guilty of raping two of the three women who charged him with the heinous crime. The verdict was reached on May 30, 2023.
Jury’s Decision
Additionally, the jury composed of five men and seven women was deadlocked on the third count of rape. The alleged victim in this incident was Masterson’s former girlfriend. The jury deliberated on the case for over a week.
The sexual attacks, including the one deemed a mistrial, happened between 2001 and 2003. In both the first trial and the retrial, Masterson pled not guilty to the felony rape charges.
The court deemed the sitcom star a flight risk, and he was taken into custody immediately after the verdicts were read. His wife, Bijou Phillips, wept as he was led from the courtroom handcuffed. Masterson’s family and friends sat in stunned silence.
Masterson’s Trials
His first trial began about six months ago, however, it ended in a mistrial on all three accounts. The jurors had been leaning toward acquitting Masterson, though not enough to fully come to a decision.
All three of the star’s accusers are former members of the Church of Scientology. A church that Masterson is still a member of. The women, who have remained anonymous to the public, further claim the church told them to not press charges.
Each victim told the court they had been raped at his Hollywood Hills home. A fourth victim, who did not have charges against him, took the stand during his first trial. At first, Judge Charlaine Olmedo denied the prosecution’s request to have the woman testify. However, she changed her mind after they argued his lawyer had opened that door for them by suggesting the others were colluding against him.
Masterson had been out on bail since his arrest in June 2020. Due to COVID-19, his trial date had been pushed back. Once restrictions were lifted, the court system was able to resume backlogged trials.
He is due back in court for his sentencing in August. The sitcom star is facing up to 30 years in prison.
By Sheena Robertson
Sources:
NBC News: Danny Masterson found guilty of rape
ABC News: Jury finds Danny Masterson guilty on 2 counts in rape retrial
Top and Featured Image Courtesy of Amy Puzia‘s Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
Inset Image Courtesy of Steven Miller‘s Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
