Actor Danny Masterson Found Guilty of Rape Charges After Retrial in Los Angeles

Credit: Danny Masterson/Instagram

Prominent actor Danny Masterson, renowned for his portrayal on the acclaimed television sitcom "That '70s Show," has been found guilty of two counts of rape after a retrial in Los Angeles on Wednesday, May 31. This conviction, rendered by a diverse jury panel comprised of seven women and five men, entails a maximum prison sentence of 30 years. The 47-year-old artist must now await his sentencing, while one charge pertaining to an alleged rape of a former long-term companion remains unresolved.

Throughout the trial, Masterson faced accusations of sexually assaulting three women at his residence in the Hollywood Hills between 2001 and 2003, with claims suggesting that the victims were drugged prior to the assaults. Additionally, it was alleged that the actor, who opted not to testify, exploited his connections within the Church of Scientology to evade accountability for an extended period.

The prosecution emphasized that the women had endured intimidation, harassment, and stalking by members associated with the Church. Conversely, the defense team contended that the acts were consensual, raising doubts about the reliability of the witnesses.

During the proceedings, defense attorney Philip Cohen urged the jurors to consider skepticism toward any witness who deliberately falsified information, stating, "If you decide that a witness deliberately lied about something in this case, you should consider not believing anything that witness says."

Following inconclusive deliberations by the jury in 2022, Masterson faced a retrial in Los Angeles. However, Judge Charlaine F. Olmedo subsequently declared a mistrial, citing an impasse among the jurors. At that time, the judge remarked, "I find the jurors hopelessly deadlocked."

Expressing their disappointment with the outcome, the Los Angeles County District Attorney's office conveyed gratitude toward the jurors for their dedicated service. In a statement, they also expressed heartfelt appreciation to the victims for their courageous decision to come forward and recount their distressing experiences.

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