Alec Baldwin's 'Rust' Trial: Actor Faces Questions about Involuntary Manslaughter Charges

In a new development in the 'Rust' involuntary manslaughter trial, Alec Baldwin has been questioned about his involvement in the fatal shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. Prosecutors allege that Baldwin displayed erratic and reckless behavior during the filming, while Baldwin's legal team accuses the state of withholding crucial evidence.

Alec Baldwin, the award-winning actor facing involuntary manslaughter charges for the fatal shooting of Halyna Hutchins on the set of the Western film 'Rust,' has been questioned about his involvement in the incident.

Prosecutors Kari T. Morrisey and Erlinda O. Johnson presented evidence to New Mexico courts this week, claiming that Baldwin not only "displayed erratic and aggressive behavior" during the filming but also "displayed reckless behavior" in handling the firearm used in the shooting.

Alec Baldwin's 'Rust' Trial: Actor Faces Questions about Involuntary Manslaughter Charges

Specifically, prosecutors allege that Baldwin "discharged the revolver after the filming was over and ‘cut’ was called," violating safe handling protocols. They also claim that Baldwin "shot several scenes wherein he placed his finger on the trigger of the revolver where the scene did not require any shooting of the firearm" and "rushed the armorer to reload and crew members to work at a faster pace."

Baldwin's legal team has vehemently denied these allegations, accusing state prosecutors of prosecutorial misconduct. They claim that the state has disclosed "thousands of files" over a 10-week period while withholding documents that could potentially lead to the dismissal of the indictment.

Alec Baldwin's 'Rust' Trial: Actor Faces Questions about Involuntary Manslaughter Charges

Last month, Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer denied Baldwin's request to dismiss the indictment, stating that the grand jury process was conducted fairly.

Prosecutors also presented photographs and videos of Baldwin's handling of the gun minutes before the fatal shooting. They argue that the images show Baldwin with his finger inside the trigger guard and his thumb on the hammer, despite not being directed to cock the gun.

Alec Baldwin's 'Rust' Trial: Actor Faces Questions about Involuntary Manslaughter Charges

In a video taken prior to the lunch break on the day of the shooting, Baldwin is seen cocking the gun without being asked to do so and possibly pulling the trigger. Another video depicts Baldwin exercising complete control over the crew and yelling at them to be quiet.

Baldwin's team, however, contends that the state has withheld critical evidence that could exonerate him. They claim that they were only recently provided with emails from one of the state's experts that contradict his testimony and the state's theory about the firearm.

Alec Baldwin's 'Rust' Trial: Actor Faces Questions about Involuntary Manslaughter Charges

Baldwin was indicted on two counts of involuntary manslaughter in January, with the potential for up to 18 months in prison if convicted. He has waived all pre-trial appearances and is expected in court next month for the nearly two-week trial.

In a surprising turn of events, Baldwin recently announced that his family would be starring in a reality television show on TLC, tentatively titled "The Baldwins." The show will chronicle the family's life and the challenges of raising seven children under the age of 10.

Alec Baldwin's 'Rust' Trial: Actor Faces Questions about Involuntary Manslaughter Charges

Despite the ongoing legal proceedings, Baldwin continues to pursue his career and personal projects, including the upcoming reality show and his marriage to Hilaria Baldwin.