An LA County Superior Court Judge has ruled that Danny Masterson must stand trial for three counts of rape.
Danny Masterson
Following harrowing testimonies made by the accusers during the preliminary hearing on Friday (20.05.21), Judge Charlaine Olmedo ordered the former 'That 70s Show' star to be brought before a judge after he pleaded not guilty to the three counts of rape by force or fear.
One of the alleged victims told the courtroom the 'Ranch' star raped her at his home, however he insisted it was consensual.
Another claimed she was in a relationship with the screen star for five years, and that he raped her while she was sleeping.
The third accuser also alleged that she was also raped at his residence, however, Masterson's lawyers have claimed the woman was allegedly annoyed that they didn't become an item.
Masterson was arrested for sex offenses last June, and in January, he was arraigned in a Los Angeles court house, where he denied the allegations against him.
The 45-year-old actor - who faces 45 years in jail if convicted - had been under investigation since 2016 and the alleged incidents took place between 2001 and 2003.
Masterson - who has seven-year-old daughter Fianna with wife Bijou Phillips - previously insisted he was innocent when he was arrested.
His lawyer said in a statement at the time: "Mr. Masterson is innocent, and we're confident that he will be exonerated when all the evidence finally comes to light and witnesses have the opportunity to testify.
"Obviously, Mr. Masterson and his wife are in complete shock considering that these nearly 20-year old allegations are suddenly resulting in charges being filed, but they and their family are comforted knowing that ultimately the truth will come out. The people who know Mr. Masterson know his character and know the allegations to be false."
Masterson is currently on bail and will be arraigned on June 7.
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