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Actor Danny Masterson must stand trial on 3 rape charges

Danny Masterson
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LOS ANGELES (AP) — A judge says "That '70s Show" actor Danny Masterson must stand trial on three counts of rape.

The Los Angeles County Superior Court judge made the determination Friday in the fourth day of a preliminary hearing where three women testified that Masterson had raped them.

According to the Associated Press, Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Charlaine F. Olmedo said she found the testimony of the women, who all took the stand to say that Masterson raped them in 2001 and 2003, credible.

The Church of Scientology and its teachings came up constantly during testimony, since Masterson is a Scientologist and the three women are former members, the AP reported.

Masterson has denied the charges.

His attorney says Masterson had consensual sex with the women and that he would prove his client's innocence.

The 45-year-old actor is charged with three counts of rape by force or fear and could get up to 45 years in prison if convicted.