· Danny Masterson, famous for his part in "That '70s Show," has been handed a prison sentence ranging from 30 years to life for the sexual assault of two women in 2023. – He was convicted in May, with the jury deadlocked on a charge involving a third woman. – The case attracted attention due to Masterson's association with the Church of Scientology, which the accusers claimed protected him and silenced them.
– Judge Charlaine Olmedo of the Los Angeles Superior Court handed down the maximum sentence allowed by law. – Masterson, a prominent Scientologist, will be eligible for parole after 25-1/2 years. – The severity of the sentence reflects the gravity of the crimes.
– The case raised concerns as Masterson met the victims through the Church of Scientology. – Accusers alleged that the organization discouraged them from reporting the crimes to law enforcement. – The Church of Scientology denied these claims, citing a violation of the First Amendment.
Prosecutors were accused of using the case to target Scientology, introducing bias and prejudice. · The Church criticized the prosecution for basing its case on Scientology and alleged fabrications. · The legal battle was highly contentious and polarizing.
– During the sentencing, the victims delivered emotional impact statements. – They described the trauma and suffering they endured due to the rapes. – One victim forgave Masterson but accused the Church of Scientology of enabling and protecting him.
– Leah Remini, a former Scientologist and critic of the organization, supported one of the victims. – The victims requested a life sentence for Masterson, asserting that he had irreparably damaged their lives. – The sentencing was seen as a moment of justice for the survivors and a turning point in Masterson's career.