A California appellate court panel has upheld the conviction and sentencing of former television actor Danny Masterson, affirming his punishment of 30 years to life in state prison for two counts of forcible rape. The three-judge panel reviewed challenges raised by Masterson’s appellate defense team, which had argued that procedural errors and evidentiary decisions during his Los Angeles Superior Court retrial prejudiced the proceedings and warranted a complete dismissal or a new trial.
In a unanimous opinion, the appellate justices determined that the trial judge acted within judicial discretion when admitting testimony regarding prior uncharged misconduct, drugged drinks, and institutional pressures surrounding the Church of Scientology. The appellate court found substantial evidence supporting the jury’s verdict, concluding that the trial court properly instructed jurors and maintained appropriate safeguards throughout the complex trial. Masterson, known for his role on the sitcom That ’70s Show, remains incarcerated in the California state correctional system while his legal team considers whether to petition the state supreme court.
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Sources:
https://www.courthousenews.com/danny-masterson-loses-rape-conviction-appeal/