Danny Masterson has received a maximum prison sentence. Image credit: Red Carpet Report, Flickr.
American actor Danny Masterson — best known for “That ‘70s Show” — has been sentenced to 30 years to life in prison for two counts of forcible rape.
The investigation first launched in 2017 after five women accused Masterson of raping them at this home between 2001 and 2003.
Masterson has maintained his innocence since the allegations first surfaced.
In May, Masterson was convicted with raping two of the women — who were referred to as Jane Doe #1 and Jane Doe #2 during the trial.
He was not convicted on the third count of rape as the jury could not reach a verdict.
The prison sentence was made by Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Charlaine F. Olmedo on Thursday.
This is the maximum sentence allowed by United States law.
“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,” Judge Olmedo said.
“But Mr Masterson, you are not the victim here.”
Jane Doe #1 said Masterson “has not shown an ounce of remorse for the pain he caused.”
“I knew he belonged behind bars for the safety of all the women he came into contact with,” she told the judge.
“I am so sorry, and I’m so upset. I wish I’d reported him sooner to the police.”
“When you raped me, you stole from me,” said Jane Doe #2.
“That’s what rape is, a theft of the spirit.”
Masterson did not make any statement at his sentencing.
Shawn Holley, one of Masterson’s lawyers, said, “Mr. Masterson did not commit the crimes for which he has been convicted and we — and the appellate lawyers — the best and the brightest in the country — are confident that these convictions will be overturned.”
Holley is adamant that the jury “[got] it wrong”.
