A jury had previously found him guilty of 13 charges, most related to abuses against three women. During the trial, the victims and their families recounted to Judge Jessica Peterson the profound emotional and spiritual impact they have suffered, pointing out that the accused used his position as a spiritual leader to manipulate them.
The 49-year-old actor listened to the sentence in silence and once again denied the charges, calling the verdict "an injustice." However, the judge emphasized the seriousness of the crimes and highlighted that he took advantage of the victims' trust and faith for his own benefit. He may be eligible for parole after 37 years.
The sentence concludes a legal process that began in 2023 when he was arrested. The case has had international repercussions, with additional investigations in Canada, including British Columbia and Alberta, where he still faces pending charges for alleged similar crimes.