That ’70s Show actor Danny Masteron is being investigated by the Los Angeles Police Department over sexual assault allegations, PEOPLE confirms.

“The Los Angeles Police Department Robbery Homicide Division, Sexual Assault Section, is conducting an investigation involving the actor Danny Masterson,” LAPD’s Robbery Homicide Division said in a statement. “Three women have come forward and disclosed that they were sexually assaulted by Masterson during the early 2000’s.”

Masterson played Steve Hyde on the comedy series and is a practicing Scientologist. In a statement to PEOPLE, Masterson’s rep addressed one of the alleged claims, which was first reported by The Underground Bunker, journalist Tony Ortega’s blog about Scientology.

The rep said the alleged incident occurred when the actor was in a six-year relationship with the alleged victim.

“We are aware of ’s 16-year-old allegations. It was only after was in contact with Leah Remini that she made allegations of sexual assault by Mr. Masterson. The alleged incident occurred in the middle of their 6 year relationship, after which she continued to be his longtime girlfriend. Significantly, during their long relationship she made numerous inconsistent claims that she was previously raped by at least 3 other famous actors and musicians,” Masterson’s rep said.

“When Danny ended the relationship she continued to pursue him, even making threats to beat up his current wife Bijou Phillips unless she left him. In fact, we are informed by the Church that the only demand made of the Church after Danny broke up with her was asking for their help to intervene so the breakup would not be permanent,” the statement continues.

The statement concludes: “We are aware also that approximately 14 years ago a woman referred to in the blog made allegations of sexual assault and that the LAPD interviewed numerous witnesses and determined the claim had no merit. Based on reading the anti-Scientology blog that posted this story, these false allegations appear to be motivated to boost Leah Remini’s anti-Scientology television series since only came forward after connecting with Leah Remini.”

Story continues

The Church of Scientology did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

This is a developing story.



