Story perspectives

Masterson Fights Conviction, Seeks New Trial Amid Claims

11/18/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Danny Masterson seeks to overturn his conviction for raping two women in 2003 through a habeas corpus petition.
Masterson argues his trial attorney, Philip Cohen, failed to call witnesses and did not challenge prosecutors' claims about Scientology.
In the petition, his lawyers contend the jury heard only the prosecution's side and lacked crucial defense evidence.
They seek a new trial to present his case fully, given the prosecution's aggressive retrial.

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Story summary

Danny Masterson seeks to overturn his conviction for raping two women in 2003 through a habeas corpus petition.
Masterson argues his trial attorney, Philip Cohen, failed to call witnesses and did not challenge prosecutors' claims about Scientology.
In the petition, his lawyers contend the jury heard only the prosecution's side and lacked crucial defense evidence.
They seek a new trial to present his case fully, given the prosecution's aggressive retrial.