While documentarian Rory Kennedy is contesting a subpoena demanding interview footage related to the 'Rust' case, the actor's legal team files motions to dismiss his involuntary manslaughter indictment.
- May 9, 2024
AceShowbiz - Alec Baldwin's lawyers have filed two additional motions to dismiss his manslaughter indictment in the "Rust" case in New Mexico. The indictment alleges that he was negligent in causing the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins while filming the Western movie in October 2021.
Baldwin's motions argue that the charge is not legally justified and that he has been deprived of a fair trial because the FBI damaged the gun used in the shooting during testing. He maintains that he did not pull the trigger and that the government's actions prevented him from proving the gun's malfunction.
Separately, Rory Kennedy of Moxie Films is facing a subpoena from prosecutors demanding footage from her documentary about Baldwin and the "Rust" incident. Kennedy argues that the subpoena is overbroad and would violate the California Shield Law, which protects journalists from being compelled to disclose information gathered in the course of their work. She also states that Baldwin did not commission or control the documentary.
In recent developments, Baldwin's lawyers have alleged that a favorable plea offer was withdrawn last year after prosecutors believed he had commissioned a documentary about Hutchins' death. They claim that prosecutors were mistaken and that Baldwin's role in the documentary is that of an interview subject only.
Prosecutors have responded by accusing the defense of misleading them and that Baldwin's actions warranted a felony indictment. Baldwin's lawyers have filed a lengthy response, accusing the state of prosecutorial misconduct and attempting to "humble" him.
No hearing date has been set for the motion to dismiss the indictment, while jury selection is scheduled for July 9. The case has also seen the addition of a third special prosecutor, Erlinda Johnson, to assist in the prosecution.
