Security Heightened As Alec Baldwin’s ‘Rust’ Trial Begins

Security measures are being increased as actor Alec Baldwin’s trial for involuntary manslaughter in the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins begins Tuesday.

Baldwin, 66, appeared in Santa Fe on Monday for a pre-trial hearing related to the October 2021 shooting on the set of the Western film Rust. The incident occurred when a gun Baldwin was holding discharged, fatally wounding Hutchins and injuring director Joel Souza.

Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office spokeswoman Denise Womack-Avila confirmed that additional deputies will be deployed around the courthouse and surrounding areas throughout the 10-day trial. While specific numbers were not disclosed, the heightened security is deemed necessary due to the high-profile nature of the case and Baldwin’s history of confrontations with photographers and fans.

Strict protocols will be enforced for media personnel and spectators seeking entry to the courthouse. Overnight camping outside the venue will not be permitted, with daily admission procedures in place.

During Monday’s hearing, Baldwin secured a significant legal victory. The judge ruled that prosecutors cannot introduce evidence of Baldwin’s role as a producer on Rust. This decision undermines a critical element of the prosecution’s strategy, which aimed to argue that Baldwin’s alleged negligence as a producer contributed to the fatal incident.

The prosecution had intended to present evidence suggesting Baldwin’s lax approach to safety protocols in his executive producer capacity. However, the judge expressed skepticism about this line of argument, stating difficulty in connecting Baldwin’s producer responsibilities to his actions as an actor on set.

Baldwin maintains that he never pulled the trigger of the gun, instead claiming he only pulled back the hammer when the shot was fired. However, an FBI report suggests the weapon could only discharge if the trigger was pulled. The actor has consistently stated he was unaware the gun contained live ammunition.

If convicted of involuntary manslaughter, Baldwin could face up to 18 months in prison. The film’s armorer, Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, was previously convicted on the same charge and sentenced to 18 months, though she is appealing the verdict.

Production on Rust resumed in April 2023 and concluded a month later, but a release date for the film has not been announced.

As the trial commences, all eyes will be on the Santa Fe courthouse, where the events leading to the tragic death of Hutchins will be scrutinized.