Danny Masterson Sentenced to 30 Years in Prison for Raping Women

Danny Masterson has been sentenced to 30 years in prison for raping two women at in Hollywood Hills Home. Masterson was a television star on the show “That’ 70s Show.” Masterson was initially charged with three counts of rape, one for each of three women, between 2001 to 2003. The initial trial in November ended in a mistrial, but he was convicted on a second trial for raping two of the third women. The third charge ended on a deadlock.   

Masterson has repeatedly denied sexually assaulting women. All three women are former members of the Church of Scientology, which Masterson is presently a member of. All the women testified that the Church had attempted to cover up the allegations.  

After Masterson’s sentencing, the Church released a statement stating that church members were required to abide by the law, that the Church was not a party to the case, and that the prosecution should not have included the Church of Scientology in its case against Masterson. “The Church was not a party to this case and religion did not belong in this proceeding as Supreme Court precedent has maintained for centuries.” 

Masterson continues to deny his guilt and his attorneys plan to pursue an appeal.  

What Are the Grounds for an Appeal?

An appellate court typically reviews a case post-trial for an error. The error must not be a minor error; it must have significantly changed the outcome of the trial. Such errors might include giving the jury an incorrect instruction, the verdict forms having an inappropriate question, or certain evidence or testimony being improperly given to the jury. Otherwise, the appellate court assumes that the jury reached the correct outcome.  

What Happens If Masterson Wins on Appeal?

Even if a defendant prevails on appeal though, the case will likely be sent back to the trial court for a retrial. If there was an error in sentencing, the trial court will likely be asked to determine a new sentence. It is unlikely that a criminal defendant would simply be allowed to walk following a successful appeal.  

Can Victims File a Lawsuit in Civil Court?

Some jurisdictions in civil cases allow defendants to share their liability with other defendants or even nonparties. States that use comparative fault allow the jury to allocate fault among different defendants or nonparties. While the Church of Scientology may dispute being dragged into this case, its inclusion might have been appropriate in a civil suit. Civil lawsuits and criminal cases are mutually exclusive. The women who accused the Church of allegedly covering up for Masterson may still file a civil lawsuit against both Masterson and the Church.  

Should I Hire a Lawyer to Help with My Criminal Case?

It is often difficult to understand criminal laws. It is highly recommended that a person obtain their own criminal attorney when facing criminal charges. Legal advice from a qualified criminal lawyer is essential to a successful defense.