A New Mexico judge denied Alec Baldwin’s motion to throw out his manslaughter indictment on Friday, keeping the case on schedule for trial in July.
Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer rejected each of Baldwin’s lawyers’ arguments for dismissal, finding that the grand jury process was not prejudiced against the actor.
Baldwin is facing up to 18 months in prison if convicted of involuntary manslaughter in the death of “Rust” cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. He is accused of negligently pointing his gun at Hutchins and pulling the trigger while preparing to film a scene, and has also been faulted for contributing to lax safety standards on set.
Baldwin’s lawyers sought to throw out the indictment, arguing that prosecutor Kari Morrissey steered the grand jury away from exculpatory information, and failed to make defense witnesses available.
In her ruling on Friday, Marlowe Sommer noted that Morrissey had read a letter from the...
Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer rejected each of Baldwin’s lawyers’ arguments for dismissal, finding that the grand jury process was not prejudiced against the actor.
Baldwin is facing up to 18 months in prison if convicted of involuntary manslaughter in the death of “Rust” cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. He is accused of negligently pointing his gun at Hutchins and pulling the trigger while preparing to film a scene, and has also been faulted for contributing to lax safety standards on set.
Baldwin’s lawyers sought to throw out the indictment, arguing that prosecutor Kari Morrissey steered the grand jury away from exculpatory information, and failed to make defense witnesses available.
In her ruling on Friday, Marlowe Sommer noted that Morrissey had read a letter from the...
- 5/24/2024
- by Gene Maddaus
- Variety Film + TV
“I’m not going to sit here and be called a liar!”
In what was one of a number of acidic exchanges today between lawyers, that’s what clearly heated Rust Special Prosecutor Kari Morrissey told a virtual hearing today on a motion by Alec Baldwin’s defense to see the involuntary manslaughter charges against their client dismissed
Despite his lawyers’ best efforts Friday over the long hearing, Baldwin will not know for several more days if he is still going to stand trial this summer on involuntary manslaughter charges for the fatal 2021 shooting of Rust cinematographer Halyna Hutchins.
Late this morning, Judge Mary Marlowe Summer told the assembled attorneys that she will make public next week her decision on whether or not to dismiss the indictment. “I’ll put it in writing, look for that,” she said, wearily signing off.
The State v. Alexander Rae Baldwin trial is scheduled...
In what was one of a number of acidic exchanges today between lawyers, that’s what clearly heated Rust Special Prosecutor Kari Morrissey told a virtual hearing today on a motion by Alec Baldwin’s defense to see the involuntary manslaughter charges against their client dismissed
Despite his lawyers’ best efforts Friday over the long hearing, Baldwin will not know for several more days if he is still going to stand trial this summer on involuntary manslaughter charges for the fatal 2021 shooting of Rust cinematographer Halyna Hutchins.
Late this morning, Judge Mary Marlowe Summer told the assembled attorneys that she will make public next week her decision on whether or not to dismiss the indictment. “I’ll put it in writing, look for that,” she said, wearily signing off.
The State v. Alexander Rae Baldwin trial is scheduled...
- 5/17/2024
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
A New Mexico judge on Friday asked a series of skeptical questions of the prosecutor in the Alec Baldwin manslaughter case, suggesting she might decide to throw out the indictment.
Baldwin is scheduled to face a trial in Santa Fe in July for negligently pointing a gun at cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and pulling the trigger. In New Mexico, involuntary manslaughter carries a maximum sentence of 18 months in prison.
Baldwin’s defense has asked Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer to throw out the case, arguing that prosecutors failed to make defense witnesses available to the grand jury.
At a hearing on Friday, Marlowe Sommer asked the prosecutor, Kari Morrissey, why she had not made more of an effort to contact those witnesses before the grand jury proceeding.
“Common sense tells me you should have reached out ahead of time,” she said.
The judge also questioned why Morrissey had cut off a witness...
Baldwin is scheduled to face a trial in Santa Fe in July for negligently pointing a gun at cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and pulling the trigger. In New Mexico, involuntary manslaughter carries a maximum sentence of 18 months in prison.
Baldwin’s defense has asked Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer to throw out the case, arguing that prosecutors failed to make defense witnesses available to the grand jury.
At a hearing on Friday, Marlowe Sommer asked the prosecutor, Kari Morrissey, why she had not made more of an effort to contact those witnesses before the grand jury proceeding.
“Common sense tells me you should have reached out ahead of time,” she said.
The judge also questioned why Morrissey had cut off a witness...
- 5/17/2024
- by Gene Maddaus
- Variety Film + TV
Alec Baldwin’s lawyers alleged a “stunning abuse of prosecutorial power” in the “Rust” case on Tuesday, arguing that a favorable plea offer was withdrawn last fall due to a misunderstanding about Baldwin’s role in a documentary about the case.
Baldwin is facing a trial in July in Santa Fe, N.M., on a felony charge of involuntary manslaughter in the shooting death of “Rust” cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. If convicted, he faces up to 18 months in prison.
Last October, prosecutors offered him a misdemeanor plea that would carry no jail time. But prosecutor Kari Morrissey said in a recent filing that she rescinded that offer after learning that Baldwin had “commissioned his own documentary” about Hutchins’ death, and was pressuring witnesses in the case to participate.
Concerned that Baldwin’s conduct would cause ongoing harm the victims and their families, she withdraw the offer and decided to seek a felony indictment.
Baldwin is facing a trial in July in Santa Fe, N.M., on a felony charge of involuntary manslaughter in the shooting death of “Rust” cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. If convicted, he faces up to 18 months in prison.
Last October, prosecutors offered him a misdemeanor plea that would carry no jail time. But prosecutor Kari Morrissey said in a recent filing that she rescinded that offer after learning that Baldwin had “commissioned his own documentary” about Hutchins’ death, and was pressuring witnesses in the case to participate.
Concerned that Baldwin’s conduct would cause ongoing harm the victims and their families, she withdraw the offer and decided to seek a felony indictment.
- 4/23/2024
- by Gene Maddaus
- Variety Film + TV
A cascade of “misleading statements” and “false” claims by Alec Baldwin’s lawyers in the Rust star’s involuntary manslaughter case for the 2021 shooting death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins will do nothing to erase the actor’s “complete lack of concern for the safety of those around him,” declares the prosecution.
Set to go on trial on July 9 in Santa Fe on charges re-filed in late January, Baldwin is facing up to 18 months behind bars if found guilty in the killing of Hutchins. With Baldwin pleading not guilty and always proclaiming he never pulled the trigger on the Colt .45 that fired live rounds at Hutchins and wounded director Joel Souza, his lawyers have slammed the case as an “abuse of the system, and an abuse of an innocent person.” They want it dismissed Asap
Fresh of their successful involuntary manslaughter conviction of Rust armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed on March 6, one of...
Set to go on trial on July 9 in Santa Fe on charges re-filed in late January, Baldwin is facing up to 18 months behind bars if found guilty in the killing of Hutchins. With Baldwin pleading not guilty and always proclaiming he never pulled the trigger on the Colt .45 that fired live rounds at Hutchins and wounded director Joel Souza, his lawyers have slammed the case as an “abuse of the system, and an abuse of an innocent person.” They want it dismissed Asap
Fresh of their successful involuntary manslaughter conviction of Rust armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed on March 6, one of...
- 4/8/2024
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
Prosecutors intend to argue that Alec Baldwin could not control his emotions on the set of “Rust,” and that he “shamelessly lied” and repeatedly changed his story after accidentally shooting the film’s cinematographer.
The actor is due to go on trial in July in Santa Fe, N.M., on a charge of involuntary manslaughter for firing a prop gun and killing Halyna Hutchins. In a 32-page filing made public on Monday, prosecutor Kari Morrissey laid out the allegations against Baldwin in unprecedented detail.
She argued that Baldwin would scream and curse at himself and others on set, sometimes for no particular reason, and that his behavior contributed to safety failures.
“To watch Mr. Baldwin’s conduct on the set of ‘Rust’ is to witness a man who has absolutely no control of his own emotions and absolutely no concern for how his conduct affects those around him,” Morrissey wrote.
The actor is due to go on trial in July in Santa Fe, N.M., on a charge of involuntary manslaughter for firing a prop gun and killing Halyna Hutchins. In a 32-page filing made public on Monday, prosecutor Kari Morrissey laid out the allegations against Baldwin in unprecedented detail.
She argued that Baldwin would scream and curse at himself and others on set, sometimes for no particular reason, and that his behavior contributed to safety failures.
“To watch Mr. Baldwin’s conduct on the set of ‘Rust’ is to witness a man who has absolutely no control of his own emotions and absolutely no concern for how his conduct affects those around him,” Morrissey wrote.
- 4/8/2024
- by Gene Maddaus
- Variety Film + TV
Alec Baldwin was offered a deal last October to plead to a misdemeanor — and apparently serve no jail time — in the accidental shooting on the set of “Rust,” according to a filing made public on Friday.
But before he could decide whether to accept the terms, prosecutors withdrew the offer and told his lawyers they would seek to indict him, the filing states.
Baldwin was indicted in January on a felony charge of involuntary manslaughter in the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, and now faces up to 18 months in prison if convicted at trial in July.
The latest revelation about the retracted plea offer was included among hundreds of pages of material made public Friday as part of Baldwin’s effort to throw out the case.
According to the documents, special prosecutor Kari Morrissey offered “a plea deal identical to the petty misdemeanor deal accepted by Dave Halls.”
Halls, the first assistant director on “Rust,...
But before he could decide whether to accept the terms, prosecutors withdrew the offer and told his lawyers they would seek to indict him, the filing states.
Baldwin was indicted in January on a felony charge of involuntary manslaughter in the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, and now faces up to 18 months in prison if convicted at trial in July.
The latest revelation about the retracted plea offer was included among hundreds of pages of material made public Friday as part of Baldwin’s effort to throw out the case.
According to the documents, special prosecutor Kari Morrissey offered “a plea deal identical to the petty misdemeanor deal accepted by Dave Halls.”
Halls, the first assistant director on “Rust,...
- 3/15/2024
- by Gene Maddaus
- Variety Film + TV
Less than six months before Alec Baldwin is set to go on trial for involuntary manslaughter over the on-set 2021 shooting of Rust cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, the actor who steadfastly claims he never pulled the trigger says prosecutors “have stacked the deck” against him.
“The State prosecutors have engaged in this misconduct—and publicly dragged Baldwin through the cesspool created by their improprieties—without any regard for the fact that serious criminal charges have been hanging over his head for two and a half years,” proclaims a motion to dismiss filed Thursday in New Mexico court.
“Enough is enough.”
Read Alec Baldwin’s motion to dismiss the Rust involuntary manslaughter charges here
Re-charged in January and facing up to 18 months behind bars if found guilty, the multiple Emmy winner’s criminal trial is scheduled to start in Santa Fe on July 9.
Baldwin, who has pleaded not guilty, earlier this week saw...
“The State prosecutors have engaged in this misconduct—and publicly dragged Baldwin through the cesspool created by their improprieties—without any regard for the fact that serious criminal charges have been hanging over his head for two and a half years,” proclaims a motion to dismiss filed Thursday in New Mexico court.
“Enough is enough.”
Read Alec Baldwin’s motion to dismiss the Rust involuntary manslaughter charges here
Re-charged in January and facing up to 18 months behind bars if found guilty, the multiple Emmy winner’s criminal trial is scheduled to start in Santa Fe on July 9.
Baldwin, who has pleaded not guilty, earlier this week saw...
- 3/15/2024
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
On Oct. 21, 2021, Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, then 24, arrived at the Bonanza Creek Ranch just south of Santa Fe, New Mexico, an hour or so before sunrise and reported to her job as the armorer and props assistant on the set of the low-budget indie Western Rust. She took a Covid test, swung by the catering tent and headed to the prop truck to prepare weapons the cast would need that day, including Alec Baldwin’s gun, a long Colt .45 revolver, which she loaded with what she has said she thought were dummy rounds.
When first assistant director Dave Halls called for Gutierrez-Reed on a walkie-talkie, she walked to a church set on the edge of the ranch’s mock Western town and approached Halls, seated in a pew with director of photography Halyna Hutchins and director Joel Souza, conferring about the schedule. That morning, most of the camera crew had walked off...
When first assistant director Dave Halls called for Gutierrez-Reed on a walkie-talkie, she walked to a church set on the edge of the ranch’s mock Western town and approached Halls, seated in a pew with director of photography Halyna Hutchins and director Joel Souza, conferring about the schedule. That morning, most of the camera crew had walked off...
- 2/14/2024
- by Rebecca Keegan
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
A day before Alec Baldwin was scheduled to be arraigned on new charges in the fatal 2021 shooting of Rust cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, the actor has entered a not guilty plea.
Facing a prison sentence of 18 months to three years if found guilty, Baldwin was re-charged by a New Mexico grand jury January 19, a year to the day he was originally charged over Hutchins’ death. Due in no small part to incompetence by the initial investigators, those charges were dropped in April 2023 but never entirely disregarded by prosecutors.
Now Baldwin is charged with involuntary manslaughter (negligent use of a firearm), a lesser charge, and involuntary manslaughter (without due caution or circumspection).
“The above-named defendant did cause the death of Halyna Hutchins by an act committed with the total disregard or indifference to the safety of others, and the act was such that an ordinary person would anticipate that death might occur under the circumstances,...
Facing a prison sentence of 18 months to three years if found guilty, Baldwin was re-charged by a New Mexico grand jury January 19, a year to the day he was originally charged over Hutchins’ death. Due in no small part to incompetence by the initial investigators, those charges were dropped in April 2023 but never entirely disregarded by prosecutors.
Now Baldwin is charged with involuntary manslaughter (negligent use of a firearm), a lesser charge, and involuntary manslaughter (without due caution or circumspection).
“The above-named defendant did cause the death of Halyna Hutchins by an act committed with the total disregard or indifference to the safety of others, and the act was such that an ordinary person would anticipate that death might occur under the circumstances,...
- 1/31/2024
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
Updated with SAG-AFTRA statement: Less than a week after being hit with involuntary manslaughter charges again over the fatal Rust on-set shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins in late 2021, Alec Baldwin’s first New Mexico court date has been set for next month.
Looking at 18 months to possibly three years behind bars based on state law, Baldwin has been “ordered to appear before Judge T. Glenn Ellington, on-February 1, 2024, at 11 a.m.” local time (read the court summons to Alec Baldwin here).
Baldwin and his lawyers seem to be in lockstep with the summons, if a filing Wednesday is any indication.
“Mr. Baldwin asserts his right to a speedy trial as guaranteed by the Sixth Amendment of the United States Constitution, Article 2, Section 14 of the New Mexico Constitution,” said Luke Nikas and Alex Spiro from the NYC office of Quinn Emanuel and Albuquerque lawyer Heather LeBlanc. “Mr. Baldwin is entitled to a...
Looking at 18 months to possibly three years behind bars based on state law, Baldwin has been “ordered to appear before Judge T. Glenn Ellington, on-February 1, 2024, at 11 a.m.” local time (read the court summons to Alec Baldwin here).
Baldwin and his lawyers seem to be in lockstep with the summons, if a filing Wednesday is any indication.
“Mr. Baldwin asserts his right to a speedy trial as guaranteed by the Sixth Amendment of the United States Constitution, Article 2, Section 14 of the New Mexico Constitution,” said Luke Nikas and Alex Spiro from the NYC office of Quinn Emanuel and Albuquerque lawyer Heather LeBlanc. “Mr. Baldwin is entitled to a...
- 1/25/2024
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
Alec Baldwin has once again been indicted on involuntarily manslaughter charges stemming from the accidental shooting death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of the film Rust.
Baldwin previously pleaded not guilty to a charge of involuntary manslaughter in February 2023, but prosecutors in New Mexico ultimately dismissed the charges against the actor in April 2023 before he went to trial.
However, with new prosecutors assigned to the case since the dismissal, a grand jury voted to revive the criminal case against Baldwin. In the indictment obtained by Rolling Stone, the...
Baldwin previously pleaded not guilty to a charge of involuntary manslaughter in February 2023, but prosecutors in New Mexico ultimately dismissed the charges against the actor in April 2023 before he went to trial.
However, with new prosecutors assigned to the case since the dismissal, a grand jury voted to revive the criminal case against Baldwin. In the indictment obtained by Rolling Stone, the...
- 1/19/2024
- by Daniel Kreps
- Rollingstone.com
A grand jury in New Mexico is again bringing charges against Alec Baldwin of involuntary manslaughter in the “Rust” case that over two years ago resulted in the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins.
The grand jury issued the indictment on Friday, January 19, with the indictment coming down exactly one year after the original, again occurring while much of Hollywood is at Sundance.
Special prosecutors Kari Morrissey and Jason Lewis on November 16 convened a grand jury and brought the charges after the previous case as led by New Mexico’s District Attorney fell apart. In New Mexico, an involuntary manslaughter charge should Baldwin be convicted could carry a maximum of 18 months in prison.
“We look forward to our day in court,” Baldwin’s attorneys Luke Nikas and Alex Spiro of Quinn Emanuel said in a statement to IndieWire.
The special prosecutors in October announced their intentions to re-charge Baldwin, saying they...
The grand jury issued the indictment on Friday, January 19, with the indictment coming down exactly one year after the original, again occurring while much of Hollywood is at Sundance.
Special prosecutors Kari Morrissey and Jason Lewis on November 16 convened a grand jury and brought the charges after the previous case as led by New Mexico’s District Attorney fell apart. In New Mexico, an involuntary manslaughter charge should Baldwin be convicted could carry a maximum of 18 months in prison.
“We look forward to our day in court,” Baldwin’s attorneys Luke Nikas and Alex Spiro of Quinn Emanuel said in a statement to IndieWire.
The special prosecutors in October announced their intentions to re-charge Baldwin, saying they...
- 1/19/2024
- by Brian Welk
- Indiewire
Alec Baldwin has been indicted in the fatal shooting of Rust cinematographer Halyna Hutchins after a grand jury presented with a new investigation into the incident recommended charging the actor and producer of the low-budget Western.
Baldwin is expected to be charged by New Mexico prosecutors, who initially dropped the criminal case to review new evidence suggesting that the gun he was holding had been modified. The five-month investigation culminated with a forensic expert issuing a report clashing with an account of the incident from Baldwin, who maintained that did not pull the trigger on the firearm when it discharged.
Baldwin faces a sentence of 18 months in prison if convicted. It remains unknown if he’ll be arrested.
“We look forward to our day in court,” said Baldwin’s attorneys, Luke Nikas and Alex Spiro, in a statement issued Friday.
Special prosecutors Kari Morrissey and Jason Lewis didn’t immediately respond to requests for comment.
Baldwin is expected to be charged by New Mexico prosecutors, who initially dropped the criminal case to review new evidence suggesting that the gun he was holding had been modified. The five-month investigation culminated with a forensic expert issuing a report clashing with an account of the incident from Baldwin, who maintained that did not pull the trigger on the firearm when it discharged.
Baldwin faces a sentence of 18 months in prison if convicted. It remains unknown if he’ll be arrested.
“We look forward to our day in court,” said Baldwin’s attorneys, Luke Nikas and Alex Spiro, in a statement issued Friday.
Special prosecutors Kari Morrissey and Jason Lewis didn’t immediately respond to requests for comment.
- 1/19/2024
- by Winston Cho
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Exactly one year to the day that Alec Baldwin was first charged with involuntary manslaughter in the fatal 2021 shooting of Rust cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, the actor has been charged again.
Widely expected for several months, a New Mexico Grand Jury issued the indictment early Friday, according to Special Prosecutors in the case. Baldwin, who had always insisted he did not pull the trigger on the 1880s prop gun that killed Hutchins, could face up to 18 months behind bars if found guilty.
“We look forward to our day In court,” Baldwin’s Quinn Emanuel lawyers Luke Nikas and Alex Spiro told Deadline today after the indictment was made public. Special Prosecutors Kerri Morrisey and Jason Lewis did not respond to request for comments on the latest twist in the Rust case. If and when they do, we will update this post.
The haunting possibility of refiled charges against the actor never was far from a reality.
Widely expected for several months, a New Mexico Grand Jury issued the indictment early Friday, according to Special Prosecutors in the case. Baldwin, who had always insisted he did not pull the trigger on the 1880s prop gun that killed Hutchins, could face up to 18 months behind bars if found guilty.
“We look forward to our day In court,” Baldwin’s Quinn Emanuel lawyers Luke Nikas and Alex Spiro told Deadline today after the indictment was made public. Special Prosecutors Kerri Morrisey and Jason Lewis did not respond to request for comments on the latest twist in the Rust case. If and when they do, we will update this post.
The haunting possibility of refiled charges against the actor never was far from a reality.
- 1/19/2024
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
Alec Baldwin has been indicted on charges of involuntary manslaughter, as prosecutors once again seek to hold the actor accountable for the on-set death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins.
Baldwin, 65, was initially charged in the case in January 2023. But the charges were dropped three months later, after Baldwin’s defense team raised questions about whether his Colt .45 was functioning properly when it fired.
Hutchins was preparing to film a scene with Baldwin at a ranch near Santa Fe, N.M., in October 2021 when the gun went off. Baldwin has maintained that he did not pull the trigger.
If convicted, Baldwin faces up to 18 months in prison.
“We look forward to our day in court,” said Baldwin’s attorneys, Luke Nikas and Alex Spiro, in a statement on Friday.
Two special prosecutors, Kari Morrissey and Jason Lewis, sent the gun for further forensic testing last summer. Their experts, Lucien and Michael Haag,...
Baldwin, 65, was initially charged in the case in January 2023. But the charges were dropped three months later, after Baldwin’s defense team raised questions about whether his Colt .45 was functioning properly when it fired.
Hutchins was preparing to film a scene with Baldwin at a ranch near Santa Fe, N.M., in October 2021 when the gun went off. Baldwin has maintained that he did not pull the trigger.
If convicted, Baldwin faces up to 18 months in prison.
“We look forward to our day in court,” said Baldwin’s attorneys, Luke Nikas and Alex Spiro, in a statement on Friday.
Two special prosecutors, Kari Morrissey and Jason Lewis, sent the gun for further forensic testing last summer. Their experts, Lucien and Michael Haag,...
- 1/19/2024
- by Gene Maddaus
- Variety Film + TV
On Tuesday, local prosecutors in New Mexico announced their attempt to recharge Alec Baldwin with involuntary manslaughter after he shot and killed the cinematographer on the set of Rust in 2021.
Initial charges against the actor were dropped earlier this year after new evidence came to light.
Now, prosecutors are preparing to present a case against Baldwin to a grand jury within the next couple of months, noting “additional facts” that have recently surfaced.
Baldwin has continued to deny his part in the shooting, claiming that he did not pull the trigger that set off the prop gun. Prosecutors originally suspected that the gun may have malfunctioned while on set, but an August report refuted this belief.
Baldwin’s attorneys, Luke Nikas and Alex Spiro, said in a statement: “It is unfortunate that a terrible tragedy has been turned into this misguided prosecution. We will answer any charges in court.”
In January,...
Initial charges against the actor were dropped earlier this year after new evidence came to light.
Now, prosecutors are preparing to present a case against Baldwin to a grand jury within the next couple of months, noting “additional facts” that have recently surfaced.
Baldwin has continued to deny his part in the shooting, claiming that he did not pull the trigger that set off the prop gun. Prosecutors originally suspected that the gun may have malfunctioned while on set, but an August report refuted this belief.
Baldwin’s attorneys, Luke Nikas and Alex Spiro, said in a statement: “It is unfortunate that a terrible tragedy has been turned into this misguided prosecution. We will answer any charges in court.”
In January,...
- 10/18/2023
- by Ava Lombardi
- Uinterview
“[A]dditional facts have come to light that we believe show Mr. Baldwin has criminal culpability.”
New Mexico special prosecutors said on Tuesday they will present new evidence against Alec Baldwin to a grand jury in the case of the 2021 fatal shooting of Rust cinematographer Halyna Hutchins.
“After extensive investigation over the past several months, additional facts have come to light that we believe show Mr. Baldwin has criminal culpability in the death of Halyna Hutchins and the shooting of Joel Souza,” said special prosecutors Kari Morrissey and Jason Lewis.
The special prosecutors will present their case to a New Mexico...
New Mexico special prosecutors said on Tuesday they will present new evidence against Alec Baldwin to a grand jury in the case of the 2021 fatal shooting of Rust cinematographer Halyna Hutchins.
“After extensive investigation over the past several months, additional facts have come to light that we believe show Mr. Baldwin has criminal culpability in the death of Halyna Hutchins and the shooting of Joel Souza,” said special prosecutors Kari Morrissey and Jason Lewis.
The special prosecutors will present their case to a New Mexico...
- 10/18/2023
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Prosecutors in New Mexico have announced they intend to refile an involuntary manslaughter charge against Alec Baldwin for his involvement in the shooting death of Rust cinematographer Halyna Hutchins after new evidence has emerged contradicting Baldwin’s previous claim that he didn’t pull the trigger. According to NBC News, the case will be presented to a grand jury in mid-November.
“After extensive investigation over the past several months, additional facts have come to light that we believe show Mr. Baldwin has criminal culpability in the death of Halyna Hutchins and the shooting of Joel Souza,” special prosecutors Kari Morrisey and Jason Lewis said in a statement. “We believe the appropriate course of action is to permit a panel of New Mexico citizens to determine from here whether Mr. Baldwin should be held over for criminal trial.”
In an interview with The New York Times, prosecutors revealed that a more...
“After extensive investigation over the past several months, additional facts have come to light that we believe show Mr. Baldwin has criminal culpability in the death of Halyna Hutchins and the shooting of Joel Souza,” special prosecutors Kari Morrisey and Jason Lewis said in a statement. “We believe the appropriate course of action is to permit a panel of New Mexico citizens to determine from here whether Mr. Baldwin should be held over for criminal trial.”
In an interview with The New York Times, prosecutors revealed that a more...
- 10/17/2023
- by Eddie Fu
- Consequence - Film News
Special prosecutors for the New Mexico district attorney’s office announced on Tuesday that they plan to present new charges to a grand jury against actor Alec Baldwin for the shooting of “Rust” cinematographer Halyna Hutchins in 2021, months after previous involuntary manslaughter charges were dropped, as first reported by NBC News.
“After extensive investigation over the past several months, additional facts have come to light that we believe show Mr. Baldwin has criminal culpability in the death of Halyna Hutchins and the shooting of Joel Souza,” prosecutors Kari Morrisey and Jason Lewis said in a statement. “We believe the appropriate course of action is to permit a panel of New Mexico citizens to determine from here whether Mr. Baldwin should be held over for criminal trial.”
“It is unfortunate that a terrible tragedy has been turned into this misguided prosecution,” Baldwin’s attorney Luke Nikas said in his own statement.
“After extensive investigation over the past several months, additional facts have come to light that we believe show Mr. Baldwin has criminal culpability in the death of Halyna Hutchins and the shooting of Joel Souza,” prosecutors Kari Morrisey and Jason Lewis said in a statement. “We believe the appropriate course of action is to permit a panel of New Mexico citizens to determine from here whether Mr. Baldwin should be held over for criminal trial.”
“It is unfortunate that a terrible tragedy has been turned into this misguided prosecution,” Baldwin’s attorney Luke Nikas said in his own statement.
- 10/17/2023
- by Jeremy Fuster
- The Wrap
New Mexico prosecutors will convene a grand jury to weigh recharging Alec Baldwin with involuntary manslaughter in the 2021 shooting death of the cinematographer on the set of Rust, marking the latest turn in a case that has drawn widespread attention for high-profile blunders by the prosecution and igniting discussion of set safety on low-budget movies.
The decision comes after a five-month investigation that culminated with a forensic expert issuing a report clashing with an account of the incident from Baldwin, who maintained that he did not pull the trigger on the firearm when it discharged. New Mexico prosecutors in April dropped charges against the actor to review new evidence suggesting that the gun he was holding had been modified. They reserved the ability to refile charges.
In a statement, special prosecutors Kari Morrissey and Jason Lewis said that “additional facts have come to light that we believe show Mr. Baldwin...
The decision comes after a five-month investigation that culminated with a forensic expert issuing a report clashing with an account of the incident from Baldwin, who maintained that he did not pull the trigger on the firearm when it discharged. New Mexico prosecutors in April dropped charges against the actor to review new evidence suggesting that the gun he was holding had been modified. They reserved the ability to refile charges.
In a statement, special prosecutors Kari Morrissey and Jason Lewis said that “additional facts have come to light that we believe show Mr. Baldwin...
- 10/17/2023
- by Winston Cho
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
New Mexico prosecutors announced Tuesday that they will present a case against Alec Baldwin to a grand jury, saying that “additional facts have come to light” in the shooting death on the set of “Rust” two years ago.
In a statement, special prosecutors Kari Morrissey and Jason Lewis said they will bring the case to a grand jury within the next two months for consideration of criminal charges.
“After extensive investigation over the past several months, additional facts have come to light that we believe show Mr. Baldwin has criminal culpability in the death of Halyna Hutchins and the shooting of Joel Souza,” they said in the statement. “We believe the appropriate course of action is to permit a panel of New Mexico citizens to determine from here whether Mr. Baldwin should be held over for criminal trial.”
Baldwin’s attorney, Luke Nikas, called the decision “unfortunate” and said he...
In a statement, special prosecutors Kari Morrissey and Jason Lewis said they will bring the case to a grand jury within the next two months for consideration of criminal charges.
“After extensive investigation over the past several months, additional facts have come to light that we believe show Mr. Baldwin has criminal culpability in the death of Halyna Hutchins and the shooting of Joel Souza,” they said in the statement. “We believe the appropriate course of action is to permit a panel of New Mexico citizens to determine from here whether Mr. Baldwin should be held over for criminal trial.”
Baldwin’s attorney, Luke Nikas, called the decision “unfortunate” and said he...
- 10/17/2023
- by Gene Maddaus
- Variety Film + TV
Just over six months after criminal charges were dropped against Alec Baldwin for the 2021 killing of Rust cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, new involuntary manslaughter claims could be put before a grand jury in a matter of weeks.
“After extensive investigation over the past several months, additional facts have come to light that we believe show Mr. Baldwin has criminal culpability in the death of Halyna Hutchins and the shooting of Joel Souza,” said Special Prosecutors Kari Morrissey and Jason Lewis today of the tragedy on the New Mexico set of the Indie Western on October 21 two years ago.
“We believe the appropriate course of action is to permit a panel of New Mexico citizens to determine from here whether Mr. Baldwin should be held over for criminal trial,” the duo added Tuesday. Earlier this month, the special prosecutors accused Baldwin and Rust producers of obstructing the investigation into what really happened...
“After extensive investigation over the past several months, additional facts have come to light that we believe show Mr. Baldwin has criminal culpability in the death of Halyna Hutchins and the shooting of Joel Souza,” said Special Prosecutors Kari Morrissey and Jason Lewis today of the tragedy on the New Mexico set of the Indie Western on October 21 two years ago.
“We believe the appropriate course of action is to permit a panel of New Mexico citizens to determine from here whether Mr. Baldwin should be held over for criminal trial,” the duo added Tuesday. Earlier this month, the special prosecutors accused Baldwin and Rust producers of obstructing the investigation into what really happened...
- 10/17/2023
- by Dominic Patten and Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Filming on Rust, the upcoming western film starring Alec Baldwin, has wrapped after nearly two full years. Production had initially planned to have the film completed in 21 days, but on the 12th day of shooting, cinematographer Halyna Hutchins was fatally shot on set and director Joel Souza was injured after Baldwin discharged a prop gun with a live round. Following a lengthy break and a slew of lawsuits surrounding the incident, the film resumed production in April. Now, in a recent Instagram post, the actor described finally completing the film...
- 5/23/2023
- by Larisha Paul
- Rollingstone.com
Alec Baldwin is marking the end of “Rust”. The 65-year-old actor took to Instagram on Monday to celebrate the end of filming on his latest project.
In his post, Baldwin shared a photo of his co-stars, Frances Fisher and Patrick Scott McDermott, smiling after finishing up their work.
“Last day of filming Rust in Montana,” Baldwin wrote. “Sorry that I did not get to work with this living legend, the great @francesfisher . Patrick, I envy you.”
Baldwin then alluded to the tragedy surrounding the film, the October 2021 shooting that killed cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and injured director Joel Souza.
“It’s been a long and difficult road. But we reach the end of the trail today,” he wrote. “Congratulations to Joel, [cinematographer] Bianca [Cline] and the entire cast and crew.”
Baldwin ended his post by calling the wrapping of the film, “Nothing less than a miracle.”
View this post on Instagram
A...
In his post, Baldwin shared a photo of his co-stars, Frances Fisher and Patrick Scott McDermott, smiling after finishing up their work.
“Last day of filming Rust in Montana,” Baldwin wrote. “Sorry that I did not get to work with this living legend, the great @francesfisher . Patrick, I envy you.”
Baldwin then alluded to the tragedy surrounding the film, the October 2021 shooting that killed cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and injured director Joel Souza.
“It’s been a long and difficult road. But we reach the end of the trail today,” he wrote. “Congratulations to Joel, [cinematographer] Bianca [Cline] and the entire cast and crew.”
Baldwin ended his post by calling the wrapping of the film, “Nothing less than a miracle.”
View this post on Instagram
A...
- 5/23/2023
- by Becca Longmire
- ET Canada
Alec Baldwin is back on the set of “Rust” for the first time since the death of film’s cinematographer, Halyna Hutchins.
In new photos of the actor taken at Montana’s Yellowstone Film Ranch Friday, Baldwin is seen in character as Harland Rust, wearing a gray shirt with blood-stained cuffs, gray pants, a button-up black vest, high leather boots and an orange bandana around his neck.
The photos come after production on the Western officially resumed over the weekend. Rust Movie Productions, LLC announced the news in a press release on Friday, after criminal charges against Baldwin were dropped on Thursday.
The news comes a year and a half after the fatal shooting of Hutchins, and a slew of legal trouble for Baldwin. In January, he was charged with two counts of involuntary manslaughter after the gun he was holding on set discharged, killing Hutchins and wounding director Joel Souza.
In new photos of the actor taken at Montana’s Yellowstone Film Ranch Friday, Baldwin is seen in character as Harland Rust, wearing a gray shirt with blood-stained cuffs, gray pants, a button-up black vest, high leather boots and an orange bandana around his neck.
The photos come after production on the Western officially resumed over the weekend. Rust Movie Productions, LLC announced the news in a press release on Friday, after criminal charges against Baldwin were dropped on Thursday.
The news comes a year and a half after the fatal shooting of Hutchins, and a slew of legal trouble for Baldwin. In January, he was charged with two counts of involuntary manslaughter after the gun he was holding on set discharged, killing Hutchins and wounding director Joel Souza.
- 4/23/2023
- by Sarah Curran
- ET Canada
Involuntary manslaughter charges against Alec Baldwin in the 2021 fatal shooting of Rust cinematographer Halyna Hutchins have been dropped, but New Mexico prosecutors said the decision doesn’t absolve the actor of criminal liability and that there will be further investigation that could lead to new charges.
The decision is the latest setback for the prosecution in a closely watched case over set safety. After the Santa Fe District Attorney’s Office charged armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed and Baldwin with two counts each of involuntary manslaughter, an amended complaint was filed downgrading the charges. The move, which significantly reduced their possible prison time to 18 months if convicted, came after lawyers for the actor and producer of the low-budget Western argued that their client was unconstitutionally charged with violating a recently amended firearm enhancement statute that didn’t exist at the time of the incident. A month later, new special prosecutors were appointed...
The decision is the latest setback for the prosecution in a closely watched case over set safety. After the Santa Fe District Attorney’s Office charged armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed and Baldwin with two counts each of involuntary manslaughter, an amended complaint was filed downgrading the charges. The move, which significantly reduced their possible prison time to 18 months if convicted, came after lawyers for the actor and producer of the low-budget Western argued that their client was unconstitutionally charged with violating a recently amended firearm enhancement statute that didn’t exist at the time of the incident. A month later, new special prosecutors were appointed...
- 4/21/2023
- by Winston Cho
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
”This decision does not absolve Mr. Baldwin of criminal culpability and charges may be refiled.”
Update: Rust prosecutors have dropped involuntary manslaughter charges against Alec Baldwin but are continuing the investigation and warned they may refile charges.
Special prosecutors special prosecutors Kari Morrissey and Jason Lewis issued the following statement n Thursday evening: ”Over the last few days and in preparation for the May 3, 2023, preliminary hearing, new facts were revealed that demand further investigation and forensic analysis in the case against Alexander “Alec” Rae Baldwin, III.
”Consequently, we cannot proceed under the current time constraints and on the facts and...
Update: Rust prosecutors have dropped involuntary manslaughter charges against Alec Baldwin but are continuing the investigation and warned they may refile charges.
Special prosecutors special prosecutors Kari Morrissey and Jason Lewis issued the following statement n Thursday evening: ”Over the last few days and in preparation for the May 3, 2023, preliminary hearing, new facts were revealed that demand further investigation and forensic analysis in the case against Alexander “Alec” Rae Baldwin, III.
”Consequently, we cannot proceed under the current time constraints and on the facts and...
- 4/21/2023
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Updated with special prosecutor statement after Previous Exclusive: Despite a heady day of news about special prosecutors in New Mexico planning to drop criminal charges against Alec Baldwin for his role in the shooting death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of Rust in 2021, the actor and producer may still face charges.
The special prosecutors, Kari Morrissey and Jason Lewis, released a statement late Thursday regarding the decision to drop his charges, saying they may be refiled after “further investigation.”
“Over the last few days and in preparation for the May 3, 2023, preliminary hearing, new facts were revealed that demand further investigation and forensic analysis in the case against Alexander “Alec” Rae Baldwin, III. Consequently, we cannot proceed under the current time constraints and on the facts and evidence turned over by law enforcement in its existing form. We therefore will be dismissing the involuntary manslaughter charges against Mr. Baldwin to conduct further investigation.
The special prosecutors, Kari Morrissey and Jason Lewis, released a statement late Thursday regarding the decision to drop his charges, saying they may be refiled after “further investigation.”
“Over the last few days and in preparation for the May 3, 2023, preliminary hearing, new facts were revealed that demand further investigation and forensic analysis in the case against Alexander “Alec” Rae Baldwin, III. Consequently, we cannot proceed under the current time constraints and on the facts and evidence turned over by law enforcement in its existing form. We therefore will be dismissing the involuntary manslaughter charges against Mr. Baldwin to conduct further investigation.
- 4/21/2023
- by Dominic Patten and Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Update [8:14 Et] With Statement from Special Prosecutors: Criminal charges against Alec Baldwin in the ongoing “Rust” case will be dropped imminently, special prosecutors in New Mexico confirmed in a statement to IndieWire.
Prosecutors Kari Morrissey and Jason Lewis, who were appointed to the “Rust” case after District Attorney Mary Carmack-Altwies recently stepped away from the prosecution, said that “new facts” that came to light demanded further investigation ahead of a planned preliminary hearing on May 3, resulting in them dropping involuntary manslaughter charges. However, they stressed that this doesn’t close the book on it, and a follow-up investigation remains ongoing.
Additionally despite an earlier media report saying otherwise, an involuntary manslaughter charge against former “Rust” armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed remain unchanged.
“Over the last few days and in preparation for the May 3, 2023, preliminary hearing, new facts were revealed that demand further investigation and forensic analysis in the case against Alexander ‘Alec’ Rae Baldwin,...
Prosecutors Kari Morrissey and Jason Lewis, who were appointed to the “Rust” case after District Attorney Mary Carmack-Altwies recently stepped away from the prosecution, said that “new facts” that came to light demanded further investigation ahead of a planned preliminary hearing on May 3, resulting in them dropping involuntary manslaughter charges. However, they stressed that this doesn’t close the book on it, and a follow-up investigation remains ongoing.
Additionally despite an earlier media report saying otherwise, an involuntary manslaughter charge against former “Rust” armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed remain unchanged.
“Over the last few days and in preparation for the May 3, 2023, preliminary hearing, new facts were revealed that demand further investigation and forensic analysis in the case against Alexander ‘Alec’ Rae Baldwin,...
- 4/21/2023
- by Brian Welk
- Indiewire
Alec Baldwin today thanked two rather disparate people in responding to New Mexico dropping criminal charges today against him in the on-set shooting death of Rust cinematographer Halyna Hutchins.
The Oscar-nominated and Emmy-winning star’s first public comments on the surprise development came in an Instagram post. Under a doting photo of Baldwin and his wife, Hilaria, the actor added the caption: “I owe everything I have to this woman (and to you Luke).”
The latter is a nod to Luke Nikas, Baldwin’s attorney in the Rust case.
Today’s news about the charges surrounding the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the Rust set in October 2021 came less than two weeks before a mini-trial was scheduled to begin in New Mexico. A virtual status conference in the case has been scheduled for April 21 before Judge Mary Marlow Sommer.
Baldwin and Rust armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed were charged in...
The Oscar-nominated and Emmy-winning star’s first public comments on the surprise development came in an Instagram post. Under a doting photo of Baldwin and his wife, Hilaria, the actor added the caption: “I owe everything I have to this woman (and to you Luke).”
The latter is a nod to Luke Nikas, Baldwin’s attorney in the Rust case.
Today’s news about the charges surrounding the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the Rust set in October 2021 came less than two weeks before a mini-trial was scheduled to begin in New Mexico. A virtual status conference in the case has been scheduled for April 21 before Judge Mary Marlow Sommer.
Baldwin and Rust armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed were charged in...
- 4/21/2023
- by Anthony D'Alessandro and Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
Spokesperson for Santa Fe District Attorney’s Office had not commented at time of writing.
Involuntary manslaughter charges against Alec Baldwin in relation to the fatal shooting of Rust cinematographer Halyna Hutchins are expected to be dropped, according to the actor-producer’s lawyers.
“We are pleased with the decision to dismiss the case against Alec Baldwin and we encourage a proper investigation into the facts and circumstances of this tragic accident,” Luke Nikas and Alex Spiro said in a statement.
A spokesperson for Santa Fe District Attorney’s Office had not replied to a request for a comment at time of writing.
Involuntary manslaughter charges against Alec Baldwin in relation to the fatal shooting of Rust cinematographer Halyna Hutchins are expected to be dropped, according to the actor-producer’s lawyers.
“We are pleased with the decision to dismiss the case against Alec Baldwin and we encourage a proper investigation into the facts and circumstances of this tragic accident,” Luke Nikas and Alex Spiro said in a statement.
A spokesperson for Santa Fe District Attorney’s Office had not replied to a request for a comment at time of writing.
- 4/20/2023
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Alec Baldwin has thanked his wife and lawyer after prosecutors dropped charges against him over the fatal shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of the Western movie Rust.
The move by New Mexico officials came just over two months after the Hollywood star was charged with involuntary manslaughter over the 2021 death.
Mr Baldwin took to Instagram several hours after the announcement to post a picture of himself hugging his wife Hilaria Baldwin.
“I owe everything I have to this woman,” he wrote in the caption, as well as thanking lawyer Luke Nikas.
Hutchins, 42, was shot and killed on 21 October 21 during filming for the movie at the Bonanza Creek Ranch in New Mexico.
Mr Baldwin was rehearsing for a scene with a gun in his hand when it went off, killing Hutchins and wounding director Joel Souza.
The Oscar-nominated actor has denied ever pulling the trigger of the pistol,...
The move by New Mexico officials came just over two months after the Hollywood star was charged with involuntary manslaughter over the 2021 death.
Mr Baldwin took to Instagram several hours after the announcement to post a picture of himself hugging his wife Hilaria Baldwin.
“I owe everything I have to this woman,” he wrote in the caption, as well as thanking lawyer Luke Nikas.
Hutchins, 42, was shot and killed on 21 October 21 during filming for the movie at the Bonanza Creek Ranch in New Mexico.
Mr Baldwin was rehearsing for a scene with a gun in his hand when it went off, killing Hutchins and wounding director Joel Souza.
The Oscar-nominated actor has denied ever pulling the trigger of the pistol,...
- 4/20/2023
- by Graeme Massie
- The Independent - Film
Alec Baldwin was charged with involuntary manslaughter for the fatal shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins earlier this year, but Deadline reports that those charges will be dropped.
“We are pleased with the decision to dismiss the case against Alec Baldwin and we encourage a proper investigation into the facts and circumstances of this tragic accident,” said Alec Baldwin’s attorneys Luke Nikas and Alex Spiro in a statement. If convicted, Baldwin could have faced up to 18 months in prison. The actor has maintained that he did not pull the trigger of the Colt .45 that killed Hutchins on the set of Rust and had no clue that the gun had contained a live round. Prosecutors have said that Baldwin shouldn’t have assumed the gun was safe, as the “first rule of gun safety is never to point a gun at someone you don’t intend on shooting.“
Related Rust co-star...
“We are pleased with the decision to dismiss the case against Alec Baldwin and we encourage a proper investigation into the facts and circumstances of this tragic accident,” said Alec Baldwin’s attorneys Luke Nikas and Alex Spiro in a statement. If convicted, Baldwin could have faced up to 18 months in prison. The actor has maintained that he did not pull the trigger of the Colt .45 that killed Hutchins on the set of Rust and had no clue that the gun had contained a live round. Prosecutors have said that Baldwin shouldn’t have assumed the gun was safe, as the “first rule of gun safety is never to point a gun at someone you don’t intend on shooting.“
Related Rust co-star...
- 4/20/2023
- by Kevin Fraser
- JoBlo.com
Prosecutors in New Mexico plan to drop an involuntary manslaughter charge against Alec Baldwin in the fatal 2021 shooting of a cinematographer on the set of the Western film “Rust,” Baldwin’s attorneys said Thursday.
“We are pleased with the decision to dismiss the case against Alec Baldwin and we encourage a proper investigation into the facts and circumstances of this tragic accident,” Baldwin’s attorneys Luke Nikas and Alex Spiro said in a statement.
Read More: Alec Baldwin’s ‘Rust’ Sets Date To Resume Production
Prosecutors didn’t immediately comment on the case. It wasn’t immediately clear whether charges could be refiled.
Baldwin also shared a post on Instagram saying he ‘owed’ everything to his wife Hilaria Baldwin and his attorney Luke.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Alec Baldwin (@alecbaldwininsta)
Baldwin and the film’s weapons supervisor Hannah Gutierrez-Reed were both charged with involuntary manslaughter in the shooting.
“We are pleased with the decision to dismiss the case against Alec Baldwin and we encourage a proper investigation into the facts and circumstances of this tragic accident,” Baldwin’s attorneys Luke Nikas and Alex Spiro said in a statement.
Read More: Alec Baldwin’s ‘Rust’ Sets Date To Resume Production
Prosecutors didn’t immediately comment on the case. It wasn’t immediately clear whether charges could be refiled.
Baldwin also shared a post on Instagram saying he ‘owed’ everything to his wife Hilaria Baldwin and his attorney Luke.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Alec Baldwin (@alecbaldwininsta)
Baldwin and the film’s weapons supervisor Hannah Gutierrez-Reed were both charged with involuntary manslaughter in the shooting.
- 4/20/2023
- by Divya Goyal
- ET Canada
Alec Baldwin will no longer face charges in the accidental shooting death of Rust cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, the actor’s lawyers tell Rolling Stone.
“We are pleased with the decision to dismiss the case against Alec Baldwin and we encourage a proper investigation into the facts and circumstances of this tragic accident,” said Luke Nikas and Alex Spiro.
A rep for the First Judicial District Attorney’s office in New Mexico did not immediately return Rolling Stone’s request for comment, nor did the two special prosecutors overseeing the case.
“We are pleased with the decision to dismiss the case against Alec Baldwin and we encourage a proper investigation into the facts and circumstances of this tragic accident,” said Luke Nikas and Alex Spiro.
A rep for the First Judicial District Attorney’s office in New Mexico did not immediately return Rolling Stone’s request for comment, nor did the two special prosecutors overseeing the case.
- 4/20/2023
- by Jon Blistein
- Rollingstone.com
[Update: Following the publication of this article, a new report from Deadline came through that states the charges against the film's armorer, Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, are also being dropped. The original article continues below as originally published.]Alec Baldwin likely won't be headed to a criminal trial in the case of the death of "Rust" cinematographer Halyna Hutchins after all; Variety and Deadline are reporting that special prosecutors in the New Mexico case are imminently expected to file paperwork in order to drop the involuntary manslaughter charges against the actor.
While the charges haven't officially been dropped yet, Kari Morrissey and Jason Lewis, the pair of prosecutors appointed to the case last month, are reportedly due to file the necessary forms to dismiss the charges soon. Baldwin's camp has already responded to the news, as lawyers Luke Nikas and Alex Spiro shared the following statement: "We are pleased with the decision to dismiss the case against Alec Baldwin and we encourage a proper investigation into the facts and circumstances of this tragic accident.
While the charges haven't officially been dropped yet, Kari Morrissey and Jason Lewis, the pair of prosecutors appointed to the case last month, are reportedly due to file the necessary forms to dismiss the charges soon. Baldwin's camp has already responded to the news, as lawyers Luke Nikas and Alex Spiro shared the following statement: "We are pleased with the decision to dismiss the case against Alec Baldwin and we encourage a proper investigation into the facts and circumstances of this tragic accident.
- 4/20/2023
- by Valerie Ettenhofer
- Slash Film
All criminal charges against Alec Baldwin have been dropped, his attorneys say, weeks before the trial over the fatal shooting of Rust cinematographer Halyna Hutchins was set to begin.
Paperwork to dismiss the involuntary manslaughter charges against Baldwin is expected to be filed soon by newly appointed special prosecutors Kari Morrissey and Jason Lewis, per reports.
Law enforcement will continue to investigate how the events of the tragic October 2021 day unfolded, meaning that the case could be reopened in future.
“We are pleased with the decision to dismiss the case against Alec Baldwin and we encourage a proper investigation into the facts and circumstances of this tragic accident,” Baldwin’s attorneys Luke Nikas and Alex Spiro said in a statement.
The Independent has contacted the Santa Fe District Attorney for further comment.
Baldwin’s co-defendant and ex-Rust armourer Hannah Guiterrez-Reed, is still facing criminal charges at current. The two previously pleaded not guilty.
Paperwork to dismiss the involuntary manslaughter charges against Baldwin is expected to be filed soon by newly appointed special prosecutors Kari Morrissey and Jason Lewis, per reports.
Law enforcement will continue to investigate how the events of the tragic October 2021 day unfolded, meaning that the case could be reopened in future.
“We are pleased with the decision to dismiss the case against Alec Baldwin and we encourage a proper investigation into the facts and circumstances of this tragic accident,” Baldwin’s attorneys Luke Nikas and Alex Spiro said in a statement.
The Independent has contacted the Santa Fe District Attorney for further comment.
Baldwin’s co-defendant and ex-Rust armourer Hannah Guiterrez-Reed, is still facing criminal charges at current. The two previously pleaded not guilty.
- 4/20/2023
- by Inga Parkel
- The Independent - Film
Prosecutors in New Mexico have dropped criminal charges against Alec Baldwin for his involvement in the shooting death of Rust cinematographer Halyna Hutchins.
Variety reports that New Mexico’s First Judicial District Attorney informed Baldwin’s attorneys that it will no longer be pursing an involuntary manslaughter case against the actor. Previously prosecutors dropped a firearm enhancement charge in the case.
“We are pleased with the decision to dismiss the case against Alec Baldwin and we encourage a proper investigation into the facts and circumstances of this tragic accident,” Baldwin’s lawyers, Luke Nikas and Alex Spiro, said in a statement.
On October 21st, 2021, Baldwin was practicing drawing an old-fashioned revolver while rehearsing on the set of the western film Rust near Santa Fe, New Mexico. The gun fired, hitting Hutchins in the stomach and director Joel Souza in the shoulder; Hutchins died after being transported to the hospital.
Baldwin...
Variety reports that New Mexico’s First Judicial District Attorney informed Baldwin’s attorneys that it will no longer be pursing an involuntary manslaughter case against the actor. Previously prosecutors dropped a firearm enhancement charge in the case.
“We are pleased with the decision to dismiss the case against Alec Baldwin and we encourage a proper investigation into the facts and circumstances of this tragic accident,” Baldwin’s lawyers, Luke Nikas and Alex Spiro, said in a statement.
On October 21st, 2021, Baldwin was practicing drawing an old-fashioned revolver while rehearsing on the set of the western film Rust near Santa Fe, New Mexico. The gun fired, hitting Hutchins in the stomach and director Joel Souza in the shoulder; Hutchins died after being transported to the hospital.
Baldwin...
- 4/20/2023
- by Alex Young
- Consequence - Film News
Prosecutors are expected to drop manslaughter charges against Alec Baldwin in the death of “Rust” cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, sources confirmed on Thursday.
In a statement, Baldwin’s lawyers said they were pleased with the outcome.
“We are pleased with the decision to dismiss the case against Alec Baldwin and we encourage a proper investigation into the facts and circumstances of this tragic accident,” said the lawyers, Luke Nikas and Alex Spiro.
Baldwin was charged in January with involuntary manslaughter for the accidental shooting on the set of “Rust,” which took place in October 2021. He could have faced up to 18 months in prison if convicted.
Prosecutors accused him of negligently firing his Colt .45 during set-up for a scene at the Bonanza Creek Ranch. Baldwin has maintained that he did not pull the trigger, and had no idea that the gun might contain a live round.
The D.A. has also filed charges against Hannah Gutierrez Reed,...
In a statement, Baldwin’s lawyers said they were pleased with the outcome.
“We are pleased with the decision to dismiss the case against Alec Baldwin and we encourage a proper investigation into the facts and circumstances of this tragic accident,” said the lawyers, Luke Nikas and Alex Spiro.
Baldwin was charged in January with involuntary manslaughter for the accidental shooting on the set of “Rust,” which took place in October 2021. He could have faced up to 18 months in prison if convicted.
Prosecutors accused him of negligently firing his Colt .45 during set-up for a scene at the Bonanza Creek Ranch. Baldwin has maintained that he did not pull the trigger, and had no idea that the gun might contain a live round.
The D.A. has also filed charges against Hannah Gutierrez Reed,...
- 4/20/2023
- by Gene Maddaus
- Variety Film + TV
“Rust” is set to start filming this week.
Et can confirm that the Western is scheduled to resume principal photography on Thursday at Yellowstone Film Ranch.
“The production will continue to utilize union crew members and will bar any use of working weapons and any form of ammunition,” Melina Spadone, Attorney for Rust Movie Productions said Tuesday. “Live ammunition is — and always was — prohibited on set.”
The news comes a year and a half after the fatal shooting of the film’s cinematographer, Halyna Hutchins and a slew of legal trouble for its star, Alec Baldwin. In January, he was charged with two counts of involuntary manslaughter after the gun he was holding on set discharged, killing Hutchins and wounding director Joel Souza.
Baldwin has already formally entered a not-guilty plea to one count of involuntary manslaughter for his role in the fatal shooting.
In a statement to Et, the star’s attorney,...
Et can confirm that the Western is scheduled to resume principal photography on Thursday at Yellowstone Film Ranch.
“The production will continue to utilize union crew members and will bar any use of working weapons and any form of ammunition,” Melina Spadone, Attorney for Rust Movie Productions said Tuesday. “Live ammunition is — and always was — prohibited on set.”
The news comes a year and a half after the fatal shooting of the film’s cinematographer, Halyna Hutchins and a slew of legal trouble for its star, Alec Baldwin. In January, he was charged with two counts of involuntary manslaughter after the gun he was holding on set discharged, killing Hutchins and wounding director Joel Souza.
Baldwin has already formally entered a not-guilty plea to one count of involuntary manslaughter for his role in the fatal shooting.
In a statement to Et, the star’s attorney,...
- 4/19/2023
- by Becca Longmire
- ET Canada
Looking at potentially months before a trial even begins in Alec Baldwin’s criminal case over the October 2021 shooting death of Rust cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, the actor is now accusing prosecutors of violating his “constitutional rights.”
Related Story ‘Succession’ Review: Final Season Of HBO’s Media Mogul Satire Has No Intention Of Going Quietly Related Story Resurrected 'Rust' Movie Has April Start Date; Alec Baldwin Criminal Case Stumbles For D.A. As Minitrial Looms Related Story Alec Baldwin Scores Another Win In 'Rust' Criminal Case As Besieged Special Prosecutor Steps Down
“The government’s conduct represented a disregard of its ethical duties, and it has threatened Mr. Baldwin’s right to a fair trial,” reads a filing by Baldwin’s New York City- and Dallas-based Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan defense team (read it here).
Placed in the docket Tuesday in New Mexico, the latest swipe...
Related Story ‘Succession’ Review: Final Season Of HBO’s Media Mogul Satire Has No Intention Of Going Quietly Related Story Resurrected 'Rust' Movie Has April Start Date; Alec Baldwin Criminal Case Stumbles For D.A. As Minitrial Looms Related Story Alec Baldwin Scores Another Win In 'Rust' Criminal Case As Besieged Special Prosecutor Steps Down
“The government’s conduct represented a disregard of its ethical duties, and it has threatened Mr. Baldwin’s right to a fair trial,” reads a filing by Baldwin’s New York City- and Dallas-based Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan defense team (read it here).
Placed in the docket Tuesday in New Mexico, the latest swipe...
- 3/23/2023
- by Dominic Patten and Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
The special prosecutor overseeing criminal charges in the Rust shooting is stepping down from the case.
In a statement, Andrea Reeb said she will no longer assist in the prosecution in light of arguments from Alec Baldwin’s lawyers that it’s “unconstitutional” for her to participate in the case due to her elected position in the New Mexico House of Representatives.
“My priority in this case—and in every case I’ve prosecuted in my 25-year career—has been justice for the victim,” the statement continues. “However, it has become clear that the best way I can ensure justice is served in this case is to step down so that the prosecution can focus on the evidence and the facts, which clearly show a complete disregard for basic safety protocols led to the death of Halyna Hutchins. I will not allow questions about my serving as a legislator and...
In a statement, Andrea Reeb said she will no longer assist in the prosecution in light of arguments from Alec Baldwin’s lawyers that it’s “unconstitutional” for her to participate in the case due to her elected position in the New Mexico House of Representatives.
“My priority in this case—and in every case I’ve prosecuted in my 25-year career—has been justice for the victim,” the statement continues. “However, it has become clear that the best way I can ensure justice is served in this case is to step down so that the prosecution can focus on the evidence and the facts, which clearly show a complete disregard for basic safety protocols led to the death of Halyna Hutchins. I will not allow questions about my serving as a legislator and...
- 3/14/2023
- by Winston Cho
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Three “Rust” crew members sued Alec Baldwin and the film’s producers on Monday, alleging they suffered symptoms of insomnia, post-traumatic stress disorder, and anxiety stemming from the fatal shooting of the film’s cinematographer, Halyna Hutchins, according to a lawsuit obtained by Et.
The three crew members claim they were in the church building during filming, when Baldwin’s gun went off, striking Hutchins and director Joel Souza. Baldwin, who denied pulling the trigger, has been charged with two counts of involuntary manslaughter after the gun he was holding discharged, killing Hutchins and wounding director Souza on the Western film set in New Mexico.
Read More: 'Rust' Armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed Permitted to Have Firearm: What to Know About On-Set Tragedy, Aftermath
Last week, Baldwin formally entered a not-guilty plea to the manslaughter charge. According to court docs, obtained by Et, the 64-year-old actor waived his right to appear before...
The three crew members claim they were in the church building during filming, when Baldwin’s gun went off, striking Hutchins and director Joel Souza. Baldwin, who denied pulling the trigger, has been charged with two counts of involuntary manslaughter after the gun he was holding discharged, killing Hutchins and wounding director Souza on the Western film set in New Mexico.
Read More: 'Rust' Armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed Permitted to Have Firearm: What to Know About On-Set Tragedy, Aftermath
Last week, Baldwin formally entered a not-guilty plea to the manslaughter charge. According to court docs, obtained by Et, the 64-year-old actor waived his right to appear before...
- 2/28/2023
- by Melissa Romualdi
- ET Canada
In a move that will shock no one, Alec Baldwin pled not guilty to involuntary manslaughter on Thursday.
Baldwin officially entering a not guilty plea comes just ahead of his first scheduled court appearance in the case sparked by the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins.
It also means that Baldwin has waived the right to the scheduled hearing, which has now been canceled.
Baldwin and Rust armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed were officially charged with two counts of involuntary manslaughter on January 31.
D.A. Mary Carmack-Alwies brought the charges forward in connection with the tragic event that occurred on the set of the movie on October 21, 2021.
"I hereby certify that I have explained to Mr. Baldwin his right to personally appear before the District Cou11 to enter a plea of Not Guilty and to have his rights explained to him by the judge and I am satisfied that Mr. Baldwin understands the waiver of these rights,...
Baldwin officially entering a not guilty plea comes just ahead of his first scheduled court appearance in the case sparked by the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins.
It also means that Baldwin has waived the right to the scheduled hearing, which has now been canceled.
Baldwin and Rust armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed were officially charged with two counts of involuntary manslaughter on January 31.
D.A. Mary Carmack-Alwies brought the charges forward in connection with the tragic event that occurred on the set of the movie on October 21, 2021.
"I hereby certify that I have explained to Mr. Baldwin his right to personally appear before the District Cou11 to enter a plea of Not Guilty and to have his rights explained to him by the judge and I am satisfied that Mr. Baldwin understands the waiver of these rights,...
- 2/23/2023
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
In an throughly unsurprising move, Alec Baldwin has officially entered a plea of not guilty today to charges arising out of the fatal shooting cinematographer Haylna Hutchins on the Rust set in 2021.
Facing involuntary manslaughter charges in the criminal case, the plea by the multiple Emmy winning actor comes one day before what was supposed to be the first hearing in the matter. With the plea entry, Baldwin has waived his right to that hearing and New Mexico Judge Mary Marlow Sommer has canceled the February 24 session.
After a detailed and FBI-assisted investigation by the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s office was released late last year, Baldwin and Rust armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed were formally charged by D.A. Mary Carmack-Altwies with two counts of involuntary manslaughter on January 31 over the October 21, 2021, death of Hutchins at Bonanza Creek Ranch. Rust director Joel Souza was wounded in that shooting.
Baldwin is now...
Facing involuntary manslaughter charges in the criminal case, the plea by the multiple Emmy winning actor comes one day before what was supposed to be the first hearing in the matter. With the plea entry, Baldwin has waived his right to that hearing and New Mexico Judge Mary Marlow Sommer has canceled the February 24 session.
After a detailed and FBI-assisted investigation by the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s office was released late last year, Baldwin and Rust armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed were formally charged by D.A. Mary Carmack-Altwies with two counts of involuntary manslaughter on January 31 over the October 21, 2021, death of Hutchins at Bonanza Creek Ranch. Rust director Joel Souza was wounded in that shooting.
Baldwin is now...
- 2/23/2023
- by Dominic Patten and Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Alec Baldwin and his legal team didn’t have anything to say Monday when the Santa Fa D.A. dropped a disputed charge in the fatal Rust shooting criminal case that could have seen the actor behind bars for up to five years for the death of cinematographer Haylna Hutchins.
Taking a victory lap of sorts today, Baldwin and his “big-city attorneys,” as a D.A. spokesperson termed them, now had a lot to say – with more than a few knocks on District Attorney Mary Carmack-Altwies and special prosecutor Andrea Reeb.
“In light of the government’s concession that its decision to charge the enhancement was legally erroneous, the Motion is now moot,” said perhaps the most deferential lines in the February 20 filed notice of withdrawal from Baldwin’s NYC-based Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan. “As set forth in the Motion, the inclusion of the enhancement thus violated the Ex...
Taking a victory lap of sorts today, Baldwin and his “big-city attorneys,” as a D.A. spokesperson termed them, now had a lot to say – with more than a few knocks on District Attorney Mary Carmack-Altwies and special prosecutor Andrea Reeb.
“In light of the government’s concession that its decision to charge the enhancement was legally erroneous, the Motion is now moot,” said perhaps the most deferential lines in the February 20 filed notice of withdrawal from Baldwin’s NYC-based Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan. “As set forth in the Motion, the inclusion of the enhancement thus violated the Ex...
- 2/22/2023
- by Dominic Patten and Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Prosecutors have dropped a five-year gun enhancement against Alec Baldwin and Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, after the defendants argued that the law did not apply at the time of the shooting on the set “Rust.”
Baldwin, the film’s star, and Gutierrez-Reed, the armorer, now face a maximum sentence of only 18 months if convicted of involuntary manslaughter in the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins.
When the charges were filed on Jan. 31, prosecutors sought to apply a statute that imposes harsher penalties for gun crimes. Under New Mexico law, if a gun is discharged in the course of a felony, defendants can face an extra five years in prison.
But that law did not go into effect until May 2022, seven months after Hutchins was killed. The gun enhancement that was in effect in October 2021 required that the defendant show “intent to intimidate or injure a person,” which did not apply to the accidental shooting of Hutchins.
Baldwin, the film’s star, and Gutierrez-Reed, the armorer, now face a maximum sentence of only 18 months if convicted of involuntary manslaughter in the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins.
When the charges were filed on Jan. 31, prosecutors sought to apply a statute that imposes harsher penalties for gun crimes. Under New Mexico law, if a gun is discharged in the course of a felony, defendants can face an extra five years in prison.
But that law did not go into effect until May 2022, seven months after Hutchins was killed. The gun enhancement that was in effect in October 2021 required that the defendant show “intent to intimidate or injure a person,” which did not apply to the accidental shooting of Hutchins.
- 2/20/2023
- by Gene Maddaus
- Variety Film + TV
Hollywood star Alec Baldwin’s attorneys alleged that New Mexico prosecutors committed a “basic legal error” when they charged him with a five-year gun enhancement that did not apply at the time of the ‘Rust’ shooting. In a motion, Baldwin’s lawyers asked Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer to throw out the enhancement as a violation of the constitution’s “ex post facto” clause, reports Variety.
“The prosecutors committed a basic legal error by charging Mr Baldwin under a version of the firearm-enhancement statute that did not exist on the date of the accident,” wrote Baldwin’s legal team, led by Luke Nikas, adding that under the state and federal constitutions, “that version of the statute could not apply to conduct that occurred before it was enacted.”
Baldwin and ‘Rust’ armourer Hannah Gutierrez Reed were charged on January 31 with involuntary manslaughter in the death of Halyna Hutchins, the cinematographer who was...
“The prosecutors committed a basic legal error by charging Mr Baldwin under a version of the firearm-enhancement statute that did not exist on the date of the accident,” wrote Baldwin’s legal team, led by Luke Nikas, adding that under the state and federal constitutions, “that version of the statute could not apply to conduct that occurred before it was enacted.”
Baldwin and ‘Rust’ armourer Hannah Gutierrez Reed were charged on January 31 with involuntary manslaughter in the death of Halyna Hutchins, the cinematographer who was...
- 2/11/2023
- by News Bureau
- GlamSham
Alec Baldwin is arguing that New Mexico prosecutors are unconstitutionally charging him with violating a statute that didn’t exist at the time of the Rust shooting.
The actor and producer of the low-budget Western faces up to six-and-a-half years in prison under a recently-amended firearm enhancement statute. But that enhancement was enacted seven months after the fatal shooting. The change lowered the standards to apply the added penalty and increased potential prison time from three to five years.
In a motion to dismiss the charge filed on Friday, Baldwin’s lawyers say that the prosecution committed an “elementary legal error.”
“Application of the current version of the statute would be unconstitutionally retroactive, and the government has no legitimate basis to charge Mr. Baldwin under the version of the statute that existed at the time of the accident,” writes Luke Nikas, representing Baldwin.
Mary Carmack-Altwies, the district attorney who serves Santa Fe County,...
The actor and producer of the low-budget Western faces up to six-and-a-half years in prison under a recently-amended firearm enhancement statute. But that enhancement was enacted seven months after the fatal shooting. The change lowered the standards to apply the added penalty and increased potential prison time from three to five years.
In a motion to dismiss the charge filed on Friday, Baldwin’s lawyers say that the prosecution committed an “elementary legal error.”
“Application of the current version of the statute would be unconstitutionally retroactive, and the government has no legitimate basis to charge Mr. Baldwin under the version of the statute that existed at the time of the accident,” writes Luke Nikas, representing Baldwin.
Mary Carmack-Altwies, the district attorney who serves Santa Fe County,...
- 2/10/2023
- by Winston Cho
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
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