Alec Baldwin cleared of charges in Halyna Hutchins shooting case

Hind Al Soulia - Riyadh - NEW MEXICO — A New Mexico judge abruptly dismissed the involuntary manslaughter case against Alec Baldwin on Friday, bringing a surprising end to the actor's trial over the 2021 shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of the film "Rust." Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer's decision, delivered in the middle of the trial, also barred the possibility of refiling the case.

The dismissal was based on revelations of misconduct involving the withholding of critical evidence from the defense by police and prosecutors. This evidence, disclosed during recent testimony, involved ammunition brought to the sheriff’s office in March, potentially linked to Hutchins' death. Prosecutors had initially downplayed its relevance, leading Baldwin's legal team to accuse them of concealing crucial information and filing for a case dismissal.

In her ruling, Judge Marlowe Sommer emphasized the impact of this misconduct on the trial's fairness, stating, "The late discovery of this evidence during trial has impeded the effective use of evidence in such a way that it has impacted the fundamental fairness of the proceedings." She questioned the handling of the evidence, suggesting it bordered on bad faith.

The conclusion of the criminal case marks the end of legal culpability for the 66-year-old Baldwin, whose role as a producer on "Rust" had come under scrutiny for safety protocols. While District Attorney Mary Carmack-Altwies expressed disappointment over not presenting the case to the jury, she affirmed the prosecution's commitment to seeking justice for Halyna Hutchins.

Despite the dismissal of criminal charges, Baldwin still faces civil lawsuits from Hutchins' family and crew members. The production's armorer, Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, previously convicted of involuntary manslaughter, is also appealing her sentence amidst similar evidentiary challenges.

The trial's unexpected halt left jurors, who were dismissed following the judge's decision, after just beginning to hear the prosecution's case. Baldwin, visibly emotional, hugged his attorneys and his wife, Hilaria, before leaving the courthouse without speaking to reporters.

The outcome of the trial has cast uncertainty over Baldwin's future professional prospects, although he recently launched a reality show with his wife, focusing on their large family. The legal saga, which attracted widespread attention, has underscored broader questions about safety on film sets and the responsibilities of production crews.

The film "Rust," completed in Montana, remains unreleased and faces ongoing legal and logistical challenges despite wrapping up filming following the tragic incident. — Agencies