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Alec Baldwin has been indicted for involuntary manslaughter once more for his involvement in the accidental shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins during the filming of the 2021 movie, Rust.
What implications does this additional charge have for the famous Hollywood figure?
What is the reason for Alec Baldwin being charged a second time?
In the beginning of last year, a group of jurors accused the actor of committing involuntary manslaughter after he fatally shot Ms Hutchins during a rehearsal for the film Rust. He was aiming the gun at her when it discharged, resulting in her death and injuring Joel Souza, the director of the movie. The incident took place on October 21, 2021, while filming near Santa Fe, New Mexico.
According to Mr Baldwin, he had only pulled back the hammer of the gun, not the trigger, before it discharged.
In April 2023, special prosecutors dropped the initial charge, citing the possibility that the gun malfunctioned due to modifications made prior to the shooting.
On January 19, 2024, a second accusation was made after the prosecution received updated analysis from experts in ballistics and forensic testing. This analysis showed that the trigger must have been pulled or pressed.
What is the punishment for involuntary manslaughter?
On January 19, 2024, a grand jury in Santa Fe, New Mexico indicted Mr. Baldwin for involuntary manslaughter, classified as a fourth-degree felony.
In New Mexico, a fourth-degree felony can result in an 18-month prison sentence and a fine of up to $5,000.
“We eagerly anticipate our day in court,” stated Luke Nikas and Alex Spiro, the lawyers representing Baldwin, after the second indictment was announced.
What happens now?
According to the Associated Press, Mr. Baldwin and his lawyers have the option to formally plead with or without an arraignment, which may result in a trial.
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According to AP, prosecutors have two options going forward. One is to argue that Mr. Baldwin was careless in his use of a firearm, and the other is to demonstrate that he caused Ms. Hutchins’ death by acting recklessly, without proper caution or concern for the safety of others.
Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, the weapons supervisor for the film, is currently facing charges of involuntary manslaughter and evidence tampering in relation to the death of Ms Hutchins. She has entered a plea of not guilty and her trial commenced on February 21st.
Source: independent.co.uk
