- Bijou phillips and danny masterson 2017 rape trial#
- Bijou phillips and danny masterson 2017 rape free#
The major difference between the two trials related to the allegation of drugging. Scientology was also a prominent feature of the first trial. “Could it be there’s problems otherwise with the government’s case?” “Why have we heard so much about Scientology?” Cohen asked. What better hunting ground? In Scientology, the defendant is a celebrity and he’s untouchable.”ĭefense attorney Philip Cohen argued that the prosecution invoked Scientology as a way to distract from inconsistencies in the victims’ testimony. “The church taught his victims that rape isn’t rape, that you cause this and above all you aren’t allowed to go to law enforcement. “Like all predators, the defendant carefully sought out his prey,” Anson argued. In closing arguments, prosecutor Ariel Anson argued that Masterson had taken advantage of his position as an “upstart” in the church to rape the victims without fear of repercussion. They have also said that the church dissuaded them from reporting Masterson - a prominent church member thanks to his acting success - to the police. The case has shined a light on the teachings of Scientology, of which Masterson is a lifelong member.Īll three alleged victims were members at the time of the alleged assaults, and have since left the church.
Bijou phillips and danny masterson 2017 rape trial#
Masterson’s first trial ended in November with a hung jury, with the majority voting to acquit on all three charges. “While we are disappointed that the jury did not convict on all counts, we respect their decision.” “Their courage and strength have been an inspiration to us all,” he said. George Gascón thanked the jury for its service and praised the women for coming forward. She said she was determined to seek justice in civil court, where she said the three women will “shine a light on how Scientology and other conspirators enabled and sought to cover up Masterson’s monstrous behavior.” Masterson’s former girlfriend, Jane Doe 3, said in a statement that she was “devastated that he has dodged criminal accountability for his heinous conduct against me.” “I am disappointed that he was not convicted on all counts, but take great solace in the fact that he, the Church of Scientology, and others, will have to fully account for their abhorrent actions in civil court.” “I am experiencing a complex array of emotions – relief, exhaustion, strength, sadness – knowing that my abuser, Danny Masterson, will face accountability for his criminal behavior,” she said.
She also referred to a pending civil case, in which she and the other accusers have sued Masterson and the Church of Scientology for harassment and stalking. One of the victims, known in court as Jane Doe 2, issued a statement expressing relief that Masterson was convicted. Masterson’s wife, Bijou Phillips, was seen sobbing in the front row of the audience.
Bijou phillips and danny masterson 2017 rape free#
Judge Charlaine Olmedo denied a defense request that he remain free until sentencing. Without a doubt, the outcome has been a shocking one for the actor, and that holds true for those around him, including his family members like Chris.After the verdict was read, Masterson was handcuffed and taken into custody. There's a lot of uncertainty at the moment regarding Masterson's future. “No matter what happens though, Bijou supports him,” the source says. As for his wife, a source with People suggests that she'll remain by his side throughout the ongoing process. Masterson is now facing 30 years in prison, while his team remains quiet on the details.
She couldn’t believe that he was taken into custody right away and remanded.” “She never expected him to be found guilty. People writes, “She wasn’t prepared for the verdict,” the source says. Not only were Masterson's close friends likely distraught, but according to People, Danny's partner Bijou Phillips was not prepared for the negative outcome. The likes of Ashton Kutcher were sure Danny Masterson would be cleared of the allegations - however, the court deemed that would not be the case, and Danny was guilty of two counts of rape.
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