Three women accuse Danny Masterson of rape — and say Church of Scientology covered it up

In today’s terrible news, actor Danny Masterson allegedly sexually assaulted threewomen. And inother terrible news, ina strong play to become the world’s most hated religion, the Church of Scientology tried to cover it up. The 40-year-old longtime Scientologist is currently under investigation by the LAPD, as confirmed by the Hollywood Reporter, for the alleged attacks that are said to have happened in the early 2000s.

Claims that the church urged the three women to hush up were not confirmed by the police, but longtime Scientology investigative reporter (and former EIC of the Village Voice) Tony Ortega cites LAPD documents that state that is the case. He also notes former Scientologist LeahReminiwas a “key reason that the women came forward,” and states the actress is in direct contact with the victims following her A&E series, “Scientology and the Aftermath.” According toRemini, one victim said of her report of the attack to the church: “They threatened me that if I ever told anyone or reported him to the police that I would be declared a ‘suppressive person’ and lose everything and everyone.”

Ortega saysReminicitedher own experience with the LAPD on the victims’ behalves, saying, “I pointed out to her that there was a framed picture of aScientologiston their wall, actor MichaelPeña. Do you know what that says to a youngScientologistwho comes here to seek justice? My experience with the LAPD has not been good. I asked her to do the right thing by these girls, and I told her that the world is watching.”

A rep for Masterson has since released a statement to PEOPLE following the claims, giving the side eye toRemini: “We are aware of [redacted]’s 16-year-old allegations. It was only after [redacted] was in contact with LeahReminithat 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.”

The rep also notes to THR: “Significantly, during their long relationship she made numerous inconsistent claims that she was previously raped by at least 3 other famous actors and musicians.”

Oh, OK, then. Because nothing makes you sound more innocent than slut-shaming the victim.