Armorer in Rust Case Seeks Dismissal as Baldwin Trial is Dropped Amid Misconduct Allegations

https://icaro.icaromediagroup.com/system/images/photos/16291694/original/open-uri20240713-18-1m6zkpf?1720896615
ICARO Media Group
Politics
13/07/2024 18h44

An attorney representing Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, the armorer on the film set of "Rust," intends to file a motion for her case dismissal following the recent dismissal of Alec Baldwin's trial. Gutierrez-Reed's attorney, Jason Bowles, plans to cite misconduct by the prosecution, which prompted the judge to drop Baldwin's case.

Bowles stated that they would be filing the motion based on discovery violations that have taken place throughout Gutierrez-Reed's trial and continue to occur. Shockingly, he discovered further misconduct during Baldwin's trial, which strengthened their basis for dismissal.

Gutierrez-Reed was convicted of involuntary manslaughter in March for the tragic killing of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of "Rust." She was subsequently sentenced to 18 months in prison. The incident occurred on October 21, 2021, when Baldwin unintentionally discharged a prop gun, resulting in the fatal shooting of Hutchins.

While charged with one count of involuntary manslaughter, Baldwin pleaded not guilty to the accusations. Special prosecutor Kari T. Morrissey argued in the brief trial that Baldwin was negligent in handling the firearm.

In response to Baldwin's case dismissal, Bowles expressed his agreement with the judge's decision, stating, "The judge absolutely made the right decision on the law and on the facts... The judge found the state committed misconduct." He further emphasized the emotional toll on Gutierrez-Reed and the devastating impact of the state repeatedly violating discovery rules in her case.

Following the trial's outcome, Baldwin left the courthouse without addressing the media. However, Morrissey, the special prosecutor, spoke to reporters and expressed her respect for the court's decision. She also stressed that there was no evidence connecting the ammunition in question to the incident involving Hutchins.

NBC News has made attempts to reach out to Baldwin's legal representation for comment, but no response has been provided. Meanwhile, Baldwin took to his official Instagram account on Saturday to acknowledge the support he has received during this challenging time, expressing gratitude to those who stood by his family.

As Gutierrez-Reed's attorney prepares to file the motion for her case dismissal, the shockwaves from the dropped Baldwin trial continue to reverberate through the entertainment industry. The unfolding legal developments surrounding the tragic events on the set of "Rust" raise pressing concerns about safety protocols, accountability, and the pursuit of justice.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

Related