Danny Masterson Sentenced To 30 Years In Prison After Rape Convictions

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Danny Masterson was sentenced this morning to 30 years to life in prison for multiple rapes.

As the one-time That ’70s Show actor was for both of his trials on the criminal charges, Masterson was present in court today for the sentencing from Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Charlaine Olmedo. Permitted to address the court, Masterson chose not to speak Thursday — though he did confer with defense lawyer Phillip Cohen just before sentencing began.

Speaking to Masterson directly of a “criminal justice system that you feel has failed you,” Judge Olmedo told him that “you are not the victim here … your actions 20 years ago were criminal.” Masterson was informed that because of his sentence, he will have to register as a sex offender upon parole or release — which he told the court he understood.

Given the maximum sentence allocated under the law, Masterson was taken out of the court by Sheriff’s deputies to begin formally serving his time in a state prison. As the sentence was announced, Masterson’s wife Bijou Phillips and other family members quietly wept in the public gallery.

Today’s sentencing comes over three months after Masterson was found guilty by an LA jury on two of three counts of sexual assault. The rapes occurred two decades ago. Masterson was given 150 days credit for time already served. He was also notified that he can file a notice of appeal within 60 days of today – a move the defense is expected to make quickly.

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