The former 'That 70s Show' star is facing a maximum sentence of 45 years to life after being slapped with three counts of rape related to alleged incidents taking place between 2001 and 2003.
- Jun 19, 2020
AceShowbiz - Danny Masterson believes his rape charges will be dismissed. The actor portraying Steven Hyde on "That '70s Show" is facing a maximum sentence of 45 years to life after being charged with three counts of rape on Wednesday, June 17, but rumor has it, he will not give in to any plea deal.
A source claimed that the 44-year-old actor is adamant that his legal team is ready to defend him should his case go to trial. "The defense Danny has is robust," the source told Us Weekly. "It's not a given that there will be a criminal trial. There are very strong grounds for the charges to be dismissed."
"And it should be pointed out the alleged victims are currently suing Danny for significant financial damages," the source went on to point out, before stressing, "Danny will not be accepting a plea deal, despite pressure he will get to take it. Period."
Masterson was arrested on Wednesday after Los Angeles prosecutors filed three counts of rape by force or fear against him the day before. The filing was done following a three-year investigation by the Los Angeles Police Department over claims by multiple women that he sexually assaulted them during the early 2000's.
Following Masterson's release, his attorney Tom Mesereau voiced confidence that he "will be exonerated." The lawyer further stated, "Mr. Masterson and his wife [Bijou Phillips] are in complete shock considering that these nearly 20-year old allegations are suddenly resulting in charges being filed, but they and their family are comforted knowing that ultimately the truth will come out."
Masterson's rape charges, in the meantime, delighted former Scientologist Leah Remini. In an Instagram post, the 50-year-old actress declared, "Finally, victims are being heard when it comes to Scientology! Praise the lord!" She went on to warn the Church, "This is just the beginning Scientology, your days of getting away with it is coming to an end!"
