In a surprising turn of events, a judge in New Mexico has dismissed the involuntary manslaughter charges against actor Alec Baldwin mid-trial. The decision allows Baldwin to avoid a potential felony conviction and an 18-month prison sentence. The ruling came as a massive relief for Baldwin and his family, who have faced legal and career repercussions since the tragic death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of the film “Rust” in October 2021.
During the trial, Baldwin’s attorneys, Alex Spiro and Luke Nikas, successfully argued that prosecutors failed to disclose crucial evidence related to the case. The late discovery of ammunition, possibly connected to the incident, was turned over to the Santa Fe Sheriff’s office by a Good Samaritan in March. This evidence played a significant role in the motion filed by Baldwin’s legal team to dismiss the charges.
While Baldwin and his wife, Hilaria Baldwin, claimed they did not celebrate the dismissal, recent footage obtained by TMZ shows the couple and their legal team at a bar in Santa Fe shortly after the trial concluded. The group reportedly spent a few hours at the bar, with Hilaria seen talking to someone while fidgeting with her cell phone. Later, they were photographed heading to a nearby Mexican restaurant for a dinner to mark what was perceived as a court victory.
However, emotions continue to run high over the case, as Baldwin still faces a wrongful death lawsuit filed by Hutchins’ parents and sister. Famed attorney Gloria Allred, who represents the Hutchins family, emphasized that the judge’s ruling does not exonerate Baldwin and does not change the fact that he fired a loaded gun, resulting in Hutchins’ death. Allred stated that they intend to pursue the case in civil court and hold Baldwin and the entire production of “Rust” accountable.
Despite the dismissal of criminal charges, Baldwin’s legal troubles are far from over. The couple is participating in at least two upcoming projects, including a documentary on the “Rust” shooting and a reality TV show called “The Baldwins,” which will provide a glimpse into their lives as parents of seven young children.
