Actor Alec Baldwin was visibly emotional as a judge dismissed the involuntary manslaughter case against him on Friday, July 12, citing prosecutors’ failure to properly disclose evidence to the defense.
The nearly three-year legal ordeal stemming from the tragic shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins concluded without a verdict, bringing tears of relief for Baldwin and his family members who had endured somber days in a New Mexico courtroom. Baldwin’s defense team had filed a motion arguing that state investigators did not adequately share information about a delivery of ammunition connected to the case.
Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer, after hearing testimony on the issue, ruled in favor of the defense and dismissed the case with prejudice, meaning it cannot be brought again. “The state’s discovery violation has caused unnecessary, irreparable delay in the trial,” she stated. “Dismissal with prejudice is necessary to uphold the integrity of the legal system and ensure efficient justice administration.”
Baldwin, moved by the decision, cried upon hearing the verdict and immediately embraced his wife Hilaria. The dismissal came amidst a tumultuous hearing during Baldwin’s trial for involuntary manslaughter related to the tragic incident on the set of the film “Rust” in October 2021.
During the trial, prosecutors argued Baldwin breached firearm safety protocols by pointing a prop gun at Hutchins and pulling the trigger. In contrast, Baldwin’s defense attributed the incident to lapses by the film’s armorer and assistant director responsible for firearm safety.
“This was a devastating tragedy, but Alec Baldwin did not commit a crime. He was an actor, performing the role of Harlan Rust,” said attorney Alex Spiro. “The safety protocols alleged by the prosecution are not industry standards on a movie set.”
The dismissal marks the conclusion of the third criminal case related to the shooting. Previously, the film’s armorer, Hannah Gutierrez Reed, was convicted of involuntary manslaughter, while assistant director Dave Halls accepted a plea deal for negligent use of a deadly weapon.
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