Almost three years after the cameraman Halyna Hutchins was shot dead on the set of the movie “Rust” in New Mexico, The Trial of Alec Baldwin about her death has begun.
The actor entered a New Mexico courtroom this week for the first time since the Oct. 21, 2021, shooting, and his trial formally began Wednesday. He is accused of crime of involuntary manslaughterIf a jury unanimously convicts him, he could face up to 18 months in prison.
Two main themes will prevail, one large and one small: the chaotic atmosphere on the film set and the details of the classic Italian revolver that Baldwin pointed at Hutchins.
Prosecutors have two alternative standards to prove the charge. One is based on negligent use of a firearm. The other is proving beyond a reasonable doubt that Baldwin acted with total disregard or indifference for the safety of others.
Despite the legal and technical complexities of the case, the twelve Santa Fe County citizens who make up the jury will have to reach only one verdict – guilty or not guilty – on the one charge.