A California appellate panel on Tuesday affirmed the conviction of former “That ’70s Show” actor Danny Masterson, keeping his 30‑years‑to‑life prison term in place. The three‑justice panel from the 2nd District Court of Appeal rejected the defense’s arguments for reversal, including claims of prosecutorial delay and alleged bias against the Church of Scientology.
Court’s reasoning
In an 89‑page opinion, the justices held that evidence of Masterson’s involvement with Scientology was relevant to understand the victims’ behavior, their delayed reporting, and the reactions of their families and friends. The court found no animus toward Scientology in the trial judge’s statements.
Trial background
Masterson, now 50, was found guilty on May 31, 2023, of two counts of rape by force or fear for attacks that prosecutors say occurred at his Hollywood Hills home in the early 2000s. A third rape charge involving a former longtime girlfriend resulted in a deadlocked jury; the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office chose not to retry that count.
During sentencing in September 2023, Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Charlaine Olmedo told Masterson, “You are not the victim here,” and ordered him to register as a sex offender for life after his release.
Victims speak
One victim, identified as “Jane Doe 2,” addressed Masterson directly, saying, “You relish in hurting women” and expressed that the world is safer with him behind bars. The other victim, “Jane Doe 1,” said she wished she had reported the assaults sooner and affirmed that she “knew he belonged behind bars.”
Defense response
Attorney Shawn Holley announced that appellate lawyers have identified several evidentiary and constitutional issues to be raised in briefs to state and federal appellate courts, expressing confidence that the convictions could be overturned.
Masterson remains incarcerated at California Men’s Colony in San Luis Obispo, according to the California Department of Corrections & Rehabilitation.
Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.
