The Orange County Criminal Lawyer Blog
Well-known That 70’s Show actor Danny Masterson will stand trial for three rape allegations made by women formerly involved in Scientology.
45-year-old Danny Masterson played the role of Hyde on the television series That 70’s Show from 1991 until 2006, and he has been married to 41-year-old model/actress Bijou Phillips since 2011. Masterson is also a member of the Church of Scientology.
In 2017, Masterson was investigated after three women claimed that he raped them while they were members of the church. The alleged events took place approximately 20 years ago.
As a result of the start of the investigation, Masterson was fired from his starring role on the cable show The Ranch.
The alleged victims have asserted that the church would not allow them to report the sexual assaults while they were members.
They waited until they severed their ties with the religious organization to notify the authorities about the rape allegations. The women also filed a civil lawsuit against the church.
In the summer of 2020, Masterson was officially charged with three counts of rape.
On May 23, 2021, Masterson had a preliminary hearing, and all three of the alleged victims testified against him.
Though Masterson has pleaded not guilty to the allegations, Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Charlaine F. Olmedo ruled that there was enough probable cause to move forward with a jury trial. She additionally stated that there is a much higher bar for evidence during a jury trial.
Masterson’s passport was taken, and he paid $3.3 million in bail for his release from jail. He is scheduled for an arraignment hearing in Los Angeles on June 7.
If Masterson is found guilty of the accusations, he could spend up to 45 years behind bars.
If you or someone you love is suspected of a sexual offense, contact Orange County criminal defense lawyer Staycie R. Sena at (949) 477-8088 for a consultation now.