
Alec Baldwin has initiated a lawsuit against Santa Fe officials for alleged misconduct relating to his dismissed involuntary manslaughter charge in the “Rust” shooting case.
At a Glance
- Alec Baldwin has sued for malicious prosecution, defamation, and civil rights violations.
- The lawsuit has been filed in Santa Fe’s First Judicial District Court.
- Defendants include the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office and several prosecutors.
- Baldwin claims officials aimed to wrongly convict him.
Lawsuit Details
Alec Baldwin has taken legal action against the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office, special prosecutor Kari Morrissey, and others involved in the “Rust” shooting investigation. The lawsuit, filed in the First Judicial District Court, accuses these entities of malicious prosecution, defamation, and process abuse. Asserting constitutional rights violations, Baldwin claims the prosecutors orchestrated a misleading narrative by distorting evidence, ultimately resulting in his wrongful indictment.
The lawsuit emphasizes a disregard for justice by accusing Baldwin of responsibility for the unfortunate death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. Baldwin’s indictment was withdrawn in July 2024, following defense arguments that evidence had been withheld.
Actor Alec Baldwin has filed a civil lawsuit for malicious prosecution and civil rights violations in the fatal shooting of a cinematographer on the set of the Western movie “Rust.” https://t.co/ZggV69OTPt
— ABC Action News (@abcactionnews) January 10, 2025
Allegations and Defendants
The lawsuit lists several defendants, including county officials and prosecutors, whom Baldwin accuses of civil rights violations. Baldwin claims these individuals aimed to assign unwarranted blame for the October 2021 incident, where Hutchins was accidentally shot and killed. He argues that he was scapegoated and subjected to false prosecution.
Baldwin’s attorneys, Alex Spiro and Luke Nikas, have indicated that the lawsuit seeks to hold these officials accountable. This legal action aims to prevent similar actions against others, highlighting Baldwin’s intent to pursue justice and challenge prosecutorial immunity.
Impact and Significance
Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer previously dismissed the case due to prosecution errors during the proceedings. Baldwin’s recent lawsuit accentuates allegations of evidence concealment, which he claims were intentional acts against him. Alec Baldwin continues to push forward with his career, while the legal battle remains a significant chapter in his professional life.
The legal case follows Baldwin’s criminal case dismissal by the state attorney general and remains part of broader litigation involving the “Rust” production. The lawsuit seeks a jury trial, punitive and compensatory damages, aligning with Baldwin’s ongoing efforts to clear his name and secure accountability.
Sources
- Alec Baldwin Sues Prosecutors After “Rust” Case Dismissed
- Alec Baldwin sues for malicious prosecution after judge dismisses case of fatal ‘Rust’ set shooting
- Alec Baldwin sues New Mexico officials for malicious prosecution, defamation following ‘Rust’ trial