Danny Masterson’s Sexual Assault Trial: All the things to Know

Danny Masterson made headlines in 2017 when he was first accused of sexual assault. He has since pleaded not responsible after being charged in June 2020 with allegedly raping three ladies.

4 ladies claimed in March 2017 that the That ‘70s Present alum sexually assaulted them within the early 2000s. A fifth girl got here ahead in December 2017, claiming that whereas she was relationship the actor, he “repeatedly raped” her.

Three of the 5 alleged victims had been Scientologists, which is a church that Masterson has been part of since he was a baby. The opposite two accusers, Chrissie Carnell Bixler and Bobette Riales, beforehand dated the star.

The Males at Work alum has maintained his innocence for the reason that allegations first surfaced, telling Us Weekly in an announcement in December 2017, “From day one, I’ve denied the outrageous allegations towards me. Legislation enforcement investigated these claims greater than 15 years in the past and decided them to be with out benefit.”

Masterson continued: “I’ve by no means been charged with against the law, not to mention convicted of 1. On this nation, you’re presumed harmless till confirmed responsible. Nevertheless, within the present local weather, it appears as in case you are presumed responsible the second you’re accused.”

As his prison case continued to be investigated by the Los Angeles Police Division, Masterson was sued by 4 of his sexual assault accusers in civil court docket.

In August 2019, the ladies claimed that Masterson, together with the Church of Scientology and its chief, David Miscavige, stalked them, invaded their privateness and conspired to hinder justice after the ladies got here ahead towards Masterson.

“Make no mistake, the Church of Scientology is beneath assault,” a supply completely instructed Us on the time. “It’s a brand new period. Victims are realizing they do have recourse, they usually don’t should be afraid anymore.”

Lower than one yr later, Masterson was charged with three counts of rape in his prison case. He wasn’t charged with 5 counts as a result of two of the ladies’s circumstances had inadequate proof and statutes of limitations.

Los Angeles County District Legal professional Jackie Lacey introduced the information after arresting the Sure Man actor in June 2020. Masterson might resist 45 years to a life sentence in state jail if convicted.

The actor, who made bail shortly after being taken into custody in June 2020, is about to start trial in his prison case in August 2022.

Scroll down for extra particulars on Masterson’s sexual assault case, trial and his ongoing civil lawsuit:

That is an ongoing article that was initially printed in January 2022 and final up to date on January 20, 2022.