By Sohaib Shams
Actor Danny Masterson has lost his appeal against a 2023 rape conviction, leaving his 30-year prison sentence intact. A three-judge panel of the California Court of Appeal rejected his arguments on Tuesday, upholding the verdict that found him guilty of two counts of rape against two women in 2003.
Appeal arguments rejected
Masterson, best known for his role on "That ’70s Show," had argued that Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Charlaine F. Olmedo was biased against Scientology, of which he and the plaintiffs were members at the time. The appellate panel found that Olmedo’s statements during the trial showed “no animus or departure from neutrality regarding Scientology.” The court also dismissed separate challenges regarding the statute of limitations and evidentiary rulings.
Scientology’s role in the case
Prosecutors contended that Masterson used his standing in the Church of Scientology to avoid accountability, and that the plaintiffs delayed reporting the assaults due to fear of violating a church rule against going to police. Former Scientologist Claire Headley testified as an expert, stating the church regards contacting law enforcement as a “suppressive act” punishable by excommunication. The appeals court ruled that admitting such evidence did not violate the First Amendment.
Further legal action planned
Masterson’s attorneys, Cliff Gardner and Eric Multhaup, called the decision “unfortunate” and said they would appeal to the California Supreme Court. The Church of Scientology has previously denied any policy discouraging members from reporting crimes to authorities.
