Alec Baldwin and Hannah Gutierrez Reed Navigate Legal Battles Amidst "Rust" Involuntary Manslaughter Trials

Alec Baldwin faces questions about his upcoming involuntary manslaughter trial, while Hannah Gutierrez Reed seeks release from prison pending appeal of her similar conviction. The legal proceedings surrounding the "Rust" shooting continue to unfold, with both parties navigating the complexities of the justice system.

Baldwin Faces Trial, Evades Questions

As the date for Alec Baldwin's involuntary manslaughter trial approaches, the actor has remained tight-lipped about his plans to testify. When asked by Fox News Digital if he intended to take the stand, Baldwin declined to comment. His trial is scheduled to begin on July 9, and jury selection is set for May 17.

Baldwin's legal team has filed three separate motions to dismiss the indictment against him. The first motion will be heard on May 17. The trial is expected to last until July 19.

Gutierrez Reed Requests Release Pending Appeal

Hannah Gutierrez Reed, the "Rust" armorer who was convicted of involuntary manslaughter in March, has filed a motion requesting her release from prison pending the appeal of her sentence. Her legal team argues that she is not a danger to the community or a flight risk and that she has already served a significant portion of her 18-month sentence.

Gutierrez Reed's appeal will focus on jury instruction issues raised in a post-conviction motion. Her lawyer, Jason Bowles, believes that if the appeal is successful, she will have served most or all of her sentence anyway, rendering the appeal meaningless.

Sommer's Reasoning for Sentencing

In sentencing Gutierrez Reed to the maximum penalty, Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer emphasized the seriousness of her offense. She pointed out that Gutierrez Reed's recklessness directly led to Halyna Hutchins' death and criticized her jailhouse calls, in which she discussed the impact of the incident on her modeling career.

Sommer stated that Gutierrez Reed was responsible for ensuring the safety of the weapon and that her actions turned a safe weapon into a lethal one. She added that Hutchins' husband and son had lost a loved one due to Gutierrez Reed's negligence.

Baldwin's Legal Strategy

Baldwin's legal team has argued that the involuntary manslaughter charge against him is unconstitutional and that he should not be held liable for the shooting. They maintain that Baldwin relied on the armorer to ensure the safety of the weapon and that he did not know it contained live ammunition.

The defense has also argued that the prosecution has failed to prove that Baldwin's actions were reckless or negligent. They contend that Baldwin was following Hutchins' directions when the gun discharged and that he had no reason to believe it was loaded.

Upcoming Trial and Legal Implications

The "Rust" shooting case has raised important questions about gun safety on film sets and the legal responsibilities of actors and crew members. The outcome of the trials against Baldwin and Gutierrez Reed could have significant implications for the entertainment industry.

The legal proceedings are expected to continue for several months, with the potential for further appeals and legal challenges. The trials will be closely watched by the public and the entertainment community alike.