That '70s Show star Danny Masterson sentenced to 30 years in prison for raping two women
Note: The following article contains discussion of sexual misconduct.
That ‘70s Show star Danny Masterson has been sentenced to 30 years in prison for raping two women.
The actor, who played Steven Hyde on the Fox sitcom, was found guilty of forcible rape of two women earlier this year, with the offences taking place between 2001 and 2003.
“Mr. Masterson, I know that you’re sitting here steadfast in your claims of innocence, and thus no doubt feeling victimised by a justice system that has failed you,” said Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Charlaine Olmedo following the sentencing (via NBC News). “But Mr. Masterson, you are not the victim here.”
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Masterson was charged with three counts of rape back in 2018, with the actor subsequently being found guilty at a retrial in May.
The victims of his crimes were identified at trial as Jane Doe #1, Jane Doe #2 and Jane Doe #3 during the trial, with the latter saying they had viewed their body as a “crime scene” ever since Masterson's actions.
“[He] has not shown an ounce of remorse for the pain he caused,” Jane Doe #1 told the court. “I knew he belonged behind bars for the safety of all the women he came into contact with. I am so sorry, and I’m so upset. I wish I’d reported him sooner to the police.”
Jane Doe #2 said: “When you raped me, you stole from me. That’s what rape is, a theft of the spirit. You are pathetic, disturbed and completely violent. The world is better off with you in prison.”
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“My hope is that this sentence will somehow bring them peace and that their bravery will be an example to others,” said District Attorney George Gascón in a post-sentencing statement.
“One of my top priorities is to ensure that Los Angeles will no longer be a hunting ground for Hollywood elite who feel entitled to prey on women,” he added.
If you've been affected by the issues raised in this story, you can access more information from Rape Crisis England and Wales, who work towards the elimination of all forms of sexual violence and sexual misconduct, on their website or by calling the National Rape Crisis Helpline on 0808 802 9999. Rape Crisis Scotland’s helpline number is 08088 01 03 02.
Readers in the US are encouraged to contact RAINN, or the National Sexual Assault Hotline on 800-656-4673.
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