Actress Was Targeted by Suspected Serial Rapist Using Fake Dating Profile. Justice Took 11 Years and Was ‘Worth Every Second’ (Exclusive)

**Actress Shira Scott Astrof Fights for Justice: A Decade-Long Battle Against Her Attacker**

Shira Scott Astrof, an actress and animal advocate, is calling attention to her harrowing experience of sexual assault and the lengthy pursuit of justice that followed. In an interview, Astrof declared, “Don’t call me ‘Jane Doe.’ I have nothing to be ashamed of. Say my name. I want him to know my name.” Her commitment to confronting her abuser head-on represents a remarkable ongoing effort to support other survivors.

The ordeal began over 11 years ago when Astrof was assaulted in her Los Angeles apartment by Matthew Werner, who deceived her by posing as a professional soccer player. During the attack, she suffered physical assault, including being choked and having her shoulder dislocated. Astrof has not felt able to move on since that March evening in 2015, insisting that she could not find closure until her assailant was behind bars.

This past spring, her perseverance paid off when Werner was sentenced to four years in California state prison after a series of probation violations. His actions, according to Astrof, included a return to social media under false pretences, which she reported to law enforcement. The police recognised the complexity of the case, as Werner was suspected of multiple assaults dating back to 2015, allegedly changing identities to evade capture and maintain his predatory behaviour.

In 2023, following Astrof’s testimony and an exhaustive investigation, prosecutors initially filed five charges related to various incidents. However, Astrof was the only one willing to testify. Many other victims chose not to proceed, citing fear and the emotional toll of reliving their trauma. Nonetheless, Astrof bravely stood her ground and presented her case at a court hearing.

Without the corroboration of additional witnesses, the case was resolved through a plea bargain. In October 2023, Werner entered a no contest plea to a felony charge of assault and a misdemeanor for sexual battery. While he received a suspended sentence, which initially allowed him to avoid further imprisonment, Astrof’s activism following the agreement has maintained public and legal scrutiny regarding his activities.

Astrof urged authorities to encourage others who might have been affected by Werner to come forward. “I can’t change what happened to me,” she said, “but I can sure as hell make sure it doesn’t happen to others.” Her determination is further bolstered by her strong belief in the importance of holding perpetrators accountable to protect future victims.

This commitment to advocacy is rooted in Astrof’s upbringing. Growing up in a family that valued compassion—her parents actively participated in animal rescues—she developed a deep-seated desire to help those in need. After studying theatre at the University of Southern California, Astrof made her mark on television with appearances in significant series while simultaneously rescuing animals from perilous situations across California and Mexico.

Reflecting on the night of her assault, she recalls that everything seemed normal until Werner turned suspicious and disclosed his possession of cocaine. The night escalated into a terrifying confrontation that left Astrof feeling vulnerable and violated. After the attack, police informed her that she was not alone; they identified Werner as a known predator, noting that she was not his first victim that week.

Despite the trauma, Astrof took the brave step of preparing to testify 20 times throughout the lengthy legal process. Each time, other victims recoiled from their commitments, fearful of the consequences. However, in July 2023, she determinedly declared her readiness to confront her attacker for the first time in eight years, once again asserting her voice in the courtroom.

Astrof’s involvement did not culminate with the plea deal. Following Werner’s sentencing, she expressed the emotional release of publicly confronting him, describing it as an essential catharsis in her healing journey. “I was just sobbing happy tears,” she recalled, relieved that some form of justice had been achieved.

Currently focused on her animal advocacy, Astrof finds solace and joy in rescuing animals in distress, a pursuit she considers deeply fulfilling. This passion has allowed her to save over 1,000 animals. In her newfound role as a survivor advocate, she remains vigilant, hoping her journey will empower others to come forward, especially those who may have suffered at the hands of Werner.

Detective Brent Hopkins of the Los Angeles Police Department has praised Astrof for her unwavering strength and determination, noting that her proactive efforts significantly contributed to finally bringing Werner to justice. Astrof continues to encourage survivors to speak out alongside her, firmly asserting, “It’s worth every second.”

Authorities are urging anyone who believes they may have been targeted by Matthew Werner to contact them at 213-473-0447. Additionally, support for victims of sexual abuse can be accessed by texting “STRENGTH” to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741, connecting them to certified crisis counsellors.