US actor Danny Masterson (44, "The Ranch") is said to have raped three women between 2001 and 2003. He now has to face these allegations after being indicted in Los Angeles. Prosecutor Jackie Lacey announced on Wednesday.
As "The Hollywood Reporter" reports, an arrest warrant has already been filed against the actor on Tuesday. Masterson was arrested on Wednesday morning and released in the afternoon on bail of $ 3.3 million.
The concrete allegations
According to government officials, Danny Masterson is accused of raping a 23-year-old woman between January and December 2001. In April 2003, he is said to have raped a 28-year-old woman. And he is accused of raping another 23-year-old woman he invited to his home in the Hollywood Hills between October and December 2003.
The prosecutor also indicated that she had not charged Masterson with sexual assault in two other investigations. In one case because of insufficient evidence and in the other because of a statute of limitations for the alleged crime.
That's what his lawyer says
Masterson's lawyer is said to have assured the industry magazine of his client's innocence. "We are confident that he will be exonerated when all the evidence finally comes to light and witnesses have the opportunity to testify," said Tom Mesereau.
"Of course, Mr. Masterson and his wife are completely shocked when you consider that these almost 20-year-old allegations suddenly lead to an indictment. On the other hand, they and their family are reassured because they know that in the end the truth will come to light" , the legal counsel continued. The people who would know Mr. Masterson would know his character and know that the allegations were wrong.
The Los Angeles police started an investigation into Masterson in 2017 for alleged sexual assault. The actor is best known for his role in the sitcom "The Wild Seventies" (1998-2006).