American actor Danny Masterson (45) has to stand trial in a Los Angeles court because he is suspected of raping three women. He can be sentenced to 45 years in prison.
The women said at a hearing that they were raped by Masterson between 2001 and 2003. He was at the peak of his fame as one of the lead characters in the TV series during those years That ’70s Show, which was also broadcast in the Netherlands.
The women were then members of the Scientology Church. The actor still is. The women say that they did not file a complaint at the time, because the teachings of the church did not allow it. The judge finds that explanation credible.
Voluntary
Masterson says the women had sex with him voluntarily. His lawyer attacked the women several times for inconsistencies in the statements they made.
He also said that prejudice against the Scientology Church played a role in the decision to prosecute.
Masterson has been out on bail since his arrest in June.
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