‘Rust’ Shooting Trial: Pretrial Hearing Sets Stage for Alec Baldwin’s Court Appearance A pretrial hearing was held on Friday in the involuntary manslaughter case against Alec Baldwin in connection with the fatal shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of the film “Rust.” During the hearing, the judge set a trial date of January 19, 2023, and ruled on several pretrial motions. The judge denied a motion by Baldwin’s defense team to dismiss the charges, upholding the involuntary manslaughter charge brought by the Santa Fe District Attorney. The hearing also addressed issues related to the handling of evidence, including the firearm used in the shooting and the phone records of key witnesses. The judge ordered the prosecution to provide the defense with access to all relevant evidence and witness interviews. Baldwin’s attorneys argued that he did not recklessly handle the gun or deviate from industry standards, and that he relied on the safety precautions taken by the armorer. They also sought to have the involuntary manslaughter charge reduced to a lesser offense, such as negligent homicide. However, the judge ruled that there was sufficient evidence to support the involuntary manslaughter charge, which carries a maximum sentence of 18 months in prison. The pretrial hearing has set the stage for Baldwin’s eventual court appearance, which is expected to be a high-profile trial. The outcome of the case could have implications for the film and entertainment industry’s safety protocols. Baldwin and his defense team have maintained his innocence and have said they will fight the charges. Meanwhile, the prosecution has vowed to hold all those responsible for Hutchins’ death accountable. The trial is expected to draw a significant amount of media attention and is likely to be a focus of scrutiny and public interest.A pretrial hearing held on Friday, January 27, 2023, established the groundwork for Alec Baldwin’s impending court appearance in the “Rust” shooting trial. The hearing addressed crucial legal issues, including evidence admissibility and jury selection, in preparation for the trial scheduled to begin on April 5. During the hearing, the prosecution outlined its intention to present evidence related to Baldwin’s handling of the gun and his knowledge of firearm safety protocols on the film set. The defense, on the other hand, argued that such evidence is irrelevant and prejudicial, as it does not directly relate to the specific charges against Baldwin. The judge presiding over the case, Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer, ruled that the prosecution can present evidence of Baldwin’s training and knowledge of firearm safety, but limited the scope of such evidence to events that occurred before the shooting. Sommer also ruled that the defense can introduce evidence of Baldwin’s character and reputation for safety on film sets. The hearing also touched upon jury selection, with the attorneys discussing potential challenges and biases that may arise during the process. The judge emphasized the importance of selecting a fair and impartial jury that can follow the evidence presented in court. Baldwin faces involuntary manslaughter charges stemming from the fatal shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of the Western film “Rust” in October 2021. The trial is expected to shed light on the events leading up to the tragedy and determine the extent of Baldwin’s responsibility in Hutchins’ death. The pretrial hearing has set the stage for a highly anticipated trial that will draw significant media attention and public scrutiny. The outcome of the case will have implications for Baldwin’s career and for the broader film industry’s safety protocols.