Academy Award-nominated actor Alec Baldwin appeared in court on Friday, where the judge rejected his motion to dismiss the involuntary manslaughter indictment against him in the "Rust" shooting case. Despite reporters' inquiries, Baldwin remained silent on whether he intended to testify during the trial.
Alec Baldwin's legal battle in the "Rust" involuntary manslaughter case continues as a judge denied his request to dismiss the indictment on Friday. During a court appearance, Baldwin dodged questions about his possible testimony, leaving the matter unresolved.
The court's decision stemmed from Baldwin's defense team's arguments that the grand jury process had been flawed and prejudicial. They claimed that prosecutors had withheld exculpatory evidence and failed to follow due process. However, the judge rejected these arguments, concluding that the grand jury had not been biased against Baldwin.
"We look forward to our day in court," Baldwin's lawyers, Alex Spiro and Luke Nikas, stated in a statement to Fox News Digital.
Baldwin's legal team has filed multiple motions to dismiss the case, including one based on the destruction of evidence and another challenging the prosecution's failure to allege a criminal act. The state has filed responses to these motions, but no court hearing has been scheduled regarding them at this time.
Cinematographer Halyna Hutchins died in October 2021 after Baldwin discharged a gun on the set of the Western film "Rust." The incident sparked a debate about safety protocols on film sets and the potential criminal liability of actors handling firearms.
Baldwin's legal team has maintained his innocence, claiming that he did not know the gun was loaded and that the shooting was an accident. The prosecution, led by special prosecutor Kari Morrissey, has disputed these claims, arguing that Baldwin was negligent and should have taken proper safety precautions.
The outcome of the involuntary manslaughter trial is highly anticipated and could have significant implications for the entertainment industry. The case has raised questions about the responsibilities of actors and film crews in ensuring safe working environments.
Baldwin has continued to work on other projects since the "Rust" incident, including filming the remaining scenes of "Rust" and starring in the television series "Treats." However, the involuntary manslaughter charges have cast a shadow over his career and reputation.
The trial is scheduled to begin on March 9, 2023, and is expected to last for several weeks. The jury will hear evidence from both the prosecution and the defense before reaching a verdict on Baldwin's guilt or innocence.
As the trial nears, Baldwin's legal team remains confident in their case. "We are confident that Alec will be exonerated when all the facts are heard," Spiro said in a previous statement.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
