Alec Baldwin Takes Legal Action Following “Rust” Case Resolution

Alec Baldwin has filed a civil rights lawsuit against Santa Fe officials, escalating the legal saga following the dismissal of his charges in the “Rust” shooting incident.

At a Glance

Alec Baldwin has decided to sue Santa Fe officials for malicious prosecution and civil rights violations.
The lawsuit includes accusations of evidence mishandling and defamation.
The defendants are alleged to have sought political or professional gain.

Overview of the Legal Battle

Alec Baldwin has taken legal action by filing a civil lawsuit against multiple Santa Fe officials, citing malicious prosecution and violations of civil rights. The lawsuit arises from the tragic shooting of Halyna Hutchins on the “Rust” set in October 2021, when a pistol held by Baldwin accidentally discharged, resulting in her death and the wounding of director Joel Souza.

The lawsuit, filed in Santa Fe, follows a judge’s decision to dismiss an involuntary manslaughter charge against Baldwin, who asserts his innocence, claiming he pulled back the hammer but did not discharge the weapon. The case against him was marred by controversies, including the improper introduction of unrelated ammunition evidence.

Allegations Against Officials

The lawsuit names special prosecutor Kari Morrissey, Santa Fe District Attorney Mary Carmack-Altwies, and several investigators as defendants. Baldwin’s legal team accuses them of intentionally mishandling evidence, engaging in defamation, and using the criminal justice system for political purposes. The team argues that Baldwin was unjustly scapegoated and targeted for personal or professional gain.

“Defendants, while acting under the color of law, conspired to procure a groundless indictment against Baldwin and to maliciously bring about or advance Baldwin’s trial and conviction, thus violating Baldwin’s constitutional rights by their improper use of the criminal process,” the lawsuit says.

The lawsuit alleges that the prosecutors and investigators elicited false testimony and withheld exculpatory evidence, actions claimed to violate Baldwin’s constitutional rights. This mismanagement reportedly led to the trial’s downfall and a dismissal with prejudice, indicating severe procedural lapses.

Alec Baldwin suing Santa Fe DA, officials over handling of 'Rust' shooting case https://t.co/QQlXkv9RVq

— KRQE News 13 (@krqe) January 10, 2025

Seeking Compensation

Baldwin is now seeking compensatory and punitive damages. His legal team argues that while the shooting on the “Rust” set was a tragic accident, Baldwin was wrongfully prosecuted.

The ensuing civil case will spotlight the prosecutorial practices in New Mexico, raising questions about the ethical boundaries of legal proceedings. It may also serve as a pivotal lesson on the equitable administration of justice and the protection of individual rights in legal cases.