Celeb & Ent

Danny Masterson Says Scientology Shouldn’t Have Been Part Of Rape Trial & Judge Was Biased: “Evidence Of Force Was Marginal At Best,” Petition Claims Of Assaults

Danny Masterson, the former star of “That ’70s Show,” is seeking to overturn his 2023 sexual assault convictions and the subsequent 30-year prison sentence, claiming a series of legal missteps during his trial. In a recently filed habeas corpus petition with the Appeals Court, Masterson’s legal team argues that his defense attorney provided inadequate representation, which they believe compromised his right to a fair trial. Furthermore, they allege that the presiding judge displayed bias against him, influencing the outcome of the proceedings. Central to Masterson’s argument is the assertion that prosecutors unfairly portrayed Scientology practices and policies, which he claims prejudiced the jury against him. This appeal comes after a jury found him guilty of raping two women in incidents that took place in the early 2000s, with the case drawing significant public attention due to Masterson’s celebrity status and his affiliation with the Church of Scientology, of which he is a prominent member.

Masterson’s appeal highlights specific grievances about how the trial was conducted, suggesting that his defense was not only ineffective but also failed to adequately counter the prosecution’s narrative that painted a negative picture of Scientology. The Church has faced scrutiny over its treatment of members who report abuse, and Masterson’s defense argues that this context led to a biased portrayal during the trial. The legal team is pushing for a new trial, contending that the alleged bias and misrepresentation deprived Masterson of a fair chance to defend himself. This case has sparked broader discussions about the intersection of celebrity, religion, and the legal system, raising questions about how such factors can influence jury perceptions and trial outcomes. As the appeals process unfolds, it will be critical to observe how the courts address these claims and what implications they may have for Masterson’s future and the ongoing discourse surrounding the Church of Scientology.