- The 'Rust' trial has begun
- HERE is the first update
- The drama is getting started
Let's look at all the courtroom drama, the intense scrutiny of evidence, and the defense's bold accusations against the investigation's integrity. With Baldwin's knowledge of firearms under the microscope and a prop supplier's role questioned, the trial unfolds like a blockbuster script, leaving audiences worldwide captivated and craving answers.
A trial for the ages
In Santa Fe, New Mexico, the courtroom drama surrounding Alec Baldwin and the tragic shooting on the "Rust" movie set has taken another jaw-dropping turn!
On the second day of Baldwin's involuntary manslaughter trial, defense attorney Alex Spiro launched a scathing critique of the investigation, questioning the efficiency and thoroughness of the search for the live ammunition that ended up in Baldwin's revolver, fatally wounding cinematographer Halyna Hutchins.
Spiro grilled Santa Fe County sheriff’s technician Marissa Poppell on the delayed searches of a prop truck and a prop warehouse, hinting at a rushed investigation keen on pinning the blame on Baldwin.
"Were you just trying to get this over with?" Spiro pressed, only to receive a firm "No" from Poppell.
Spiro suggested that relationship may have been too close. "There was a witness there who assisted in the search," Spiro said when asking about the warrant served on the truck. "A man named Seth Kenney. And not only did he assist, he actually was the one that opened the safe."
"Yes, he had the combination to it," Poppell said. Spiro asked, "Why did law enforcement wait a week to go to the prop truck?"
"The search warrant needed to be written," Poppell replied. "I’m not sure why the time difference exactly."
The defense's questioning revealed a puzzling twist: despite finding live rounds scattered across the "Rust" set, none were discovered in the prop truck, which supposedly housed all ammunition. This revelation raised eyebrows and suspicions, particularly towards Albuquerque-based ammunition supplier Seth Kenney, who had a close cooperative relationship with investigators but has not been charged with any wrongdoing.
Prosecution Fights Back: Clarifying Charges and D
In a strategic countermove, special prosecutor Kari Morrissey clarified that Baldwin's charges weren't for bringing live rounds onto the set or loading them into his gun.
Instead, the focus shifted to Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, the film's armorer, already convicted of involuntary manslaughter, who allegedly brought the fatal ammunition, given to her by her father.
The trial has spotlighted the critical issue of gun safety on film sets, with the defense challenging the prosecution's assertion that Baldwin recklessly flouted safety protocols.
The shocking incident has sent ripples through the entertainment industry, prompting calls for stricter safety measures and reevaluation of on-set firearm use.
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As Baldwin faces up to 18 months in prison if convicted, the trial continues to captivate and divide public opinion, with his family showing unwavering support in the courtroom. With every twist and turn, the "Rust" shooting case remains a tragic tale of loss, accountability, and the quest for justice in Hollywood.