The actor known for his role in “That ’70s Show”, aged 47, has been relocated from Corcoran State Prison in Central California, a high-security facility that previously detained the infamous cult leader Charles Manson. As per the digital records of the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, the actor, Masterson, has been shifted to the California Men’s Colony, a state prison exclusively for men, situated in San Luis Obispo, California.
'That '70s Show' actor and convicted rapist Danny Masterson leaves maximum security prison, Charles Manson’s former lock-up, transferring to lower security over concerns for his well-being.#DannyMasterson #That70sShow #prison https://t.co/e2BR826HST
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A spokesperson for the CDCR verified to USA TODAY on Monday that Masterson was moved to the new institution on Feb. 16. The CDCR further stated that due to legal constraints, they are unable to share details regarding the reasons for transfers or specific housing information.
According to the CDCR, the prison, which is of minimum to medium security, is made up of two complexes. The institution provides a range of educational and self-enhancement programs. These include programs on cognitive behavioral therapy, education on substance abuse, understanding criminal thinking, managing anger, and improving family relationships, as stated on their website.
Danny Masterson, known for his role in ‘That ‘70s Show’, has been transferred to a high-security prison that previously detained Charles Manson.
In January, it was documented that Masterson was moved to Corcoran State Prison, the same facility where Manson was incarcerated starting from 1989. This institution is recognized as one of the 10 facilities in the state that houses the “most violent and dangerous male offenders,” according to the corrections department.
In January, a state judge ruled against granting Masterson bail while his appeal was pending, citing him as a flight risk. This decision was documented by The Wrap and Deadline.
Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Charlaine Olmedo stated that if the defendant’s conviction and sentence are confirmed on appeal, it is likely that he will spend decades, if not the remainder of his life, in custody.
Considering that the defendant does not have a spouse to return home to, he now has every motivation to escape and minimal incentive to return to state prison to complete his extensive sentence if his appeal fails.
Danny Masterson, a star from ‘That ‘70s Show’, has begun serving a sentence of 30 years to life in state prison.
Judge Olmedo highlighted that Masterson, given his recent separation from his estranged wife, actress Bijou Phillips, has every motivation to escape. She filed for divorce shortly after his sentencing on September 7. Olmedo pointed out that he has little incentive to return to state prison to complete his extensive sentence if his appeal is not successful.
Last year, Masterson was found guilty of sexually assaulting two women and received a prison sentence ranging from 30 years to life. In December, it was verified by officials that the actor had been transferred to North Kern State Prison in California, as reported by The Associated Press.
During Masterson’s sentencing, Olmedo had earlier stated that Masterson was not the one who had been victimized. He further added that Masterson’s actions two decades ago had deprived someone else of their voice and their ability to choose. He emphasized that Masterson would inevitably have to face the repercussions of his past actions.
According to prison documents, Masterson will have the possibility of parole in July 2042. At that time, the actor, who is currently 47 years old, will have reached the age of 66.
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