That 70s Show's Danny Masterson 'on constant watch' as he's jailed for 30 years

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Danny Masterson has been sentenced to 30 years, with him now on
Danny Masterson has been sentenced to 30 years, with him now on 'constant watch' (Image: Getty Images)

Danny Masterson was sentenced to 30 years in prison for the rape of two women yesterday. And now the That 70s Show star is being kept under constant surveillance behind bars, according to reports.

The former star, 47, could reportedly show signs of mental distress after being sentenced to 30 years in prison and his jailers want to eliminate these risks by placing him on constant watch. Reports claim that he is under 24-hour video surveillance and has deputies "come by his cell every 30 minutes to check on him".

And according to TMZ, should Danny show any signs of mental distress or tell his team or a deputy about a mental health issue, he will immediately be taken for a mental health exam. The jail has the goal of making sure he's safe, they also report.

That 70s Show's Danny Masterson 'on constant watch' as he's jailed for 30 years qhiqqxihiheinvDanny Masterson is known for starring in That 70s Show (AFP via Getty Images)

His lawyer Shawn Holley revealed to the outlet that Danny is "mentally strong". They also said that he "feels confident his conviction will be overturned on appeal".

Danny was facing 30 years to life for the charges, but the defence only asked for a concurrent sentence of 15 years. Days of deliberation in court saw Danny found guilty of two assaults that took place in 2003, more than two decades ago. He was also accused of raping a third woman, but the jury could not reach a unanimous decision.

That '70s Show actor Danny Masterson drugged and raped women, says prosecutorThat '70s Show actor Danny Masterson drugged and raped women, says prosecutor

When the judge issued the verdict, she said: "Mr. Masterson, you are not the victim here. Your actions 20 years ago took away another person's choice and voice. Your actions 20 years ago today were criminal, and that's why you are here."

Prosecutors alleged that the former television star's involvement in the Church of Scientology played a role in the case and argued that his status and role within the church allowed him to dodge responsibility for his crimes. All three women who brought complaints against him were also members of the church.

The women were reportedly discouraged from coming forward by the church. And due to the state of California's laws, even 20 years on from the rapes taking place, the women were able to come forward years later.

If you have been affected by this story, contact Rape Crisis England & Wales for free confidential support and information on 08088029999 or their website or 08088010302 if you're calling from Scotland.

You can contact the Domestic and Sexual Abuse helpline on 0808 802 1414 if you are in Ireland.

Mollie Quirk

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