HOLLYWOOD HILLS—Actor Daniel Masterson, known for his roles as Steven in “That ’70s Show” and Jameson in Netflix Series “The Ranch,” was charged on Wednesday, June 17 with three counts of forcible rape in separate incidents at his Hollywood Hills home. Los Angeles County District Attorney, Jackie Lacey, announced that the assaults occurred between 2001 and 2003.

Masterson stared as Steven Hyde (left) in That 70’s Show, and Jameson Bennett, aka ‘Rooster’ in the Netflix Series ‘The Ranch’ (right).

Masterson was charged with three counts of rape by force or fear. The defendant is accused of:

  • Raping a 23-year-old woman between the months of January and December of 2001
  • Raping a 28-year-old woman in April 2003
  • Raping a 23-year-old woman who he had invited to his Hollywood Hills home sometime between October and December of 2003.

Masterson was arrested on Wednesday, June 17 with the bail of $3.3 million. He bonded out later in the afternoon.

One of the reports filed against Masterson.

Masterson is being represented by attorney Tom Mesereau who helped with Michael Jackson’s child molestation trial, as well as Bill Cosby and R. Kelly.

Mesereau released a statement claiming his client is not guilty:

“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,” Mesereau said. “The people who know Mr. Masterson know his character and know the allegations to be false.”

Prosecuting Deputy District Attorney, Reinhold Mueller, stated that the alleged crimes all occurred at the defendant’s home. If convicted as charged, the defendant faces a possible maximum sentence of 45 years to life in state prison.

Additionally, the District Attorney’s Office declined to file sexual assault charges against Masterson in two other cases, one for insufficient evidence and the other based upon the statute of limitations for the crime alleged.

The case remains under investigation by Los Angeles Police Department’s Robbery-Homicide Division. Masterson’s arraignment is scheduled for September 18 in Department 30 of the Foltz Criminal Justice Center. If Masterson is found guilty, he could face up to 45 years to life in state prison.

Written By Alondra Arana and Haley Bartlett