Alec Baldwin Takes Legal Action Against ‘Rust’ Prosecutors for Alleged Wrongdoing

Actor Alec Baldwin has initiated a civil lawsuit targeting prosecutors and investigators related to the criminal case stemming from the tragic shooting incident on the set of the movie ‘Rust’ in 2021. Filed in the Santa Fe County District Court, the lawsuit claims violations of his civil rights, defamation, and the suppression of crucial evidence that could have supported his defense. Notable defendants include special prosecutor Kari Morrissey and members of the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office.

The lawsuit contends that prosecutors colluded to charge Baldwin without just cause, disregarding legal protocols and concealing exculpatory evidence. Baldwin suggests that their actions were driven by an intent to make him a “scapegoat” for the incident that led to the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and injuries to director Joel Souza.

“The defendants must be held accountable for their malicious and illegal prosecution of Baldwin. While a verdict in this civil case cannot erase the trauma caused by the state’s threat of conviction and imprisonment, Alec Baldwin has filed this lawsuit to ensure the defendants are held responsible for their serious misconduct,” the complaint asserts.

In response, District Attorney Morrissey told USA Today that they intend to contest the lawsuit and defend their actions legally. The Sheriff’s Office opted not to comment.

What was the outcome of Alec Baldwin’s case?

The criminal charges against Baldwin were dropped in the summer of 2024 after Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer found that authorities failed to provide pertinent information to the defense. Baldwin’s legal team previously highlighted that the criminal proceedings were fraught with issues that undermined the trial’s fairness.

Through this current lawsuit, Baldwin seeks a jury trial, compensation for “injuries sustained,” and punitive damages. The legal documents assert that he desires accountability for the “malicious prosecution” he endured. Baldwin emphasized that while no legal ruling can undo the trauma experienced, this action aims to establish a precedent to prevent future injustices within the judicial system.