In an update to the Danny Masterson case, a Los Angeles judge has denied the actor’s bail request as his legal team works on his appeal. The judge, Charlaine Olmedo, labeled Masterson as a flight risk due to the possibility of a decades-long prison sentence if his conviction is upheld. Masterson’s lack of a wife and family, according to Judge Olmedo, gives him every incentive to flee and little reason to return to serve his sentence if his appeal is unsuccessful.
This decision comes after Masterson, known for his role as Steven Hyde on “That 70’s Show,” was sentenced to 30 years to life in prison for two counts of rape. As part of the legal proceedings, Masterson gave up his custody rights to his daughter and is currently going through a divorce with his estranged wife, Bijou Masterson.
Emotional Moment in Courtroom as Masterson Blows Kiss to His Wife
A poignant moment in the courtroom occurred when Masterson, after receiving his sentence, turned around and blew a kiss to his wife, Bijou Masterson. This gesture caught the attention of many, as Bijou was visibly distraught throughout the trial. In fact, the judge had to urge her to leave if she couldn’t control her emotions. The emotional impact of the case on both Masterson and his wife is palpable.
Judge Addresses Masterson and Stresses the Consequences of His Actions
During the sentencing, Judge Olmedo reminded Masterson that he is not the victim in this case. She emphasized that his actions two decades ago took away another person’s voice and choice. While Masterson maintained his innocence throughout the trial, the judge made it clear that he must come to terms with his actions and their consequences. Masterson showed no emotion during the sentencing.
A Look Back at the Trial and Verdict
For those who need a refresher, Masterson was arrested in 2020 and charged with three counts of forcible rape. The incidents allegedly took place in 2001 and 2003 at his home. The first trial resulted in a mistrial, but the second trial concluded with Masterson being found guilty of two counts of rape from 2003. The jury, however, couldn’t reach a unanimous decision on the third count.
The guilty verdict on the two counts of rape led to Masterson’s sentence of 30 years to life in prison. The victims described the physical and emotional trauma they experienced and expressed regret for not coming forward sooner.
Defense Seeks Lesser Sentence, Judge Stands with Prosecution
While the defense sought a sentence of 15 years to life, arguing for the convictions to run simultaneously, the prosecution insisted on the full maximum sentence. The judge ultimately sided with the prosecution, acknowledging that Masterson’s life and that of his 9-year-old daughter would be impacted by the decision. Masterson’s attorney highlighted his client’s role as a father and husband and claimed he had lived an exemplary life.
Throughout the trial, Masterson’s defense team argued that the sexual acts were consensual and questioned the consistency of the survivors’ stories. However, the jury found him guilty on the two counts of rape from 2003.
Moving Forward with an Appeal
Masterson and his legal team are now working on an appeal in hopes of overturning the conviction. The defense will challenge the guilty verdict and continue to argue for their client’s innocence.
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