Actor Danny Masterson, known for his role as Hyde in “That ’70s Show,” as well as Rooster in “The Ranch”, has been sentenced to 30 years to life in prison for the rape of two women.
These survivors have come forward, alleging that the Church of Scientology played a role in protecting Masterson and silencing them through intimidation.
Masterson, 47, is a prominent Scientologist. He starred in the retro TV comedy for eight seasons until 2006 when it ended. He was convicted this past May following a second trial, with a jury failing to reach a verdict on a charge involving a third woman.
Judge Charlaine Olmedo of Los Angeles Superior Court handed down the maximum sentence allowed by law. Masterson, who has been incarcerated since his conviction, will be eligible for parole after 25.5 years.
This case gained attention because Masterson had connections with the Church of Scientology, and the survivors claimed that the organization discouraged them from seeking help from law enforcement.
The Church of Scientology denied these allegations, insisting that Masterson’s religion should not have been a factor in the case, and they described it as a violation of the First Amendment.
Prosecutors had based their case on Scientology and alleged “fabrications about the Church to introduce prejudice and inflame bigotry,” according to the organization’s statement following the sentencing.
During the court proceedings, the women testified that Masterson had drugged and sexually assaulted them in separate incidents that occurred between 2001 and 2003 at his residence in the Hollywood Hills. Masterson, accompanied by his wife, actor Bijou Phillips, and his brother, “Malcolm in the Middle” actor Christopher Masterson, remained largely impassive as the survivors delivered their victim impact statements. He declined the opportunity to speak.
Celebrities, including Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis, have spoken out in defense of their former co-worker, while others have condemned his actions.