
Scientologist actor Danny Masterson is reportedly being investigated over allegations he sexually assaulted three women during the height of his fame.
The 41-year-old is best known for playing the role of Steven Hyde on ‘That ’70s Show’ from 1998 to 2006.
The women, who are also Scientologists, allege the Church of Scientology pressured them to stay silent for over ten years.
Police confirmed an investigation is underway in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter:
“The Los Angeles Police Department Robbery Homicide Division, Sexual Assault Section, is conducting an investigation involving the actor Danny Masterson.
“Three women have come forward and disclosed that they were sexually assaulted by Masterson during the early 2000’s.”
It follows a shocking report from independent journalist Tony Ortega, who said the victims had been encouraged to come forward by actress Leah Remini, who left the church and wrote a book about it.
The ‘King of Queens’ star also produced a TV series on alleged abuses by the organisation and then became personally involved in the women’s’ plight.
According to Ortega, the first woman to come forward claimed to have been in a relationship with Masterson when he allegedly anally raped and injured her while she was unconscious in December 2001.
She also said Scientology officials told her if she reported it to police she would “lose everything and everyone”.
The Binge discuss Leah Remini’s series ‘Scientology and the Aftermath’: