It Is Rare That a Rapist Was Convicted At All: VRLC’s Response to Actor Danny Masterson’s Sentence

It Is Rare That a Rapist Was Convicted At All:
VRLC’s Response to Actor Danny Masterson’s Sentence

By Stephanie Holt, Kelsey Worline, and Stacy Malone
Deputy Director of Operations, Managing Attorney, and Executive Director, Victim Rights Law Center

“When you raped me, you stole from me. That’s what rape is, a theft of the spirit,”
– Niesha Trout, survivor

What’s surprising about the recent rape conviction and the 30-year sentence of actor and “That ‘70s Show” star Danny Masterson is not his status as a beloved actor, that the assaults happened 20 years ago, or even the victims’ courage in speaking out, but that a rapist was convicted at all. It is rare when a rapist serves any jail time. It is a victory for all survivors when a rapist is held accountable for their actions.  

Though the outcome of this case is unusual, the women raped by Masterson are joined by survivors everywhere who are blamed, belittled and silenced by powerful systems that prioritize profits and fame over the safety and well-being of women.  

At least 50 letters were provided in support of Masterson at his sentencing hearing. But that does not prove his innocence or mean he is incapable of causing harm. Perpetrators of sexual violence are often someone who is loved and trusted in the community. 

Jane Doe 1 called Masterson “a true coward and heartless monster.” But he does not stand alone. The Church of Scientology must also be held accountable. The Church protected Masterson and discouraged the victims from reporting to police, isolated and ostracized them in their faith, and stalked and threatened them.  

However, the Church of Scientology did not invent this playbook. It is used repeatedly by other religious institutions, schools, employers, landlords, political parties, and government entities. When perpetrators of sexual violence are permitted to navigate our communities unchecked, we are all at risk.  

Nothing can restore what is stolen from rape victims. But we can all stand in support of survivors and help them in seeking justice as they climb mountains to hold perpetrators and institutions accountable not only for themselves, but for all of us.