The district attorney in Santa Fe County dropped a significant charge against Alec Baldwin, which may result in the actor avoiding a prison sentence, even if found guilty.
The gun enhancement charge was related to the allegation that Baldwin did not have the proper permits for the firearm he was using when the shooting occurred. However, Baldwin is still facing charges of manslaughter and reckless endangerment.
Baldwin’s attorney had filed a motion accusing the prosecutors of misapplying the law. The gun enhancement charge was dropped because, under New Mexico law, it only applied if the firearm was “brandished” with intent to harm or intimidate someone, which was not the case with Baldwin.
TMZ wrote:
For some reason, the D.A. felt Baldwin could be charged with a recent amendment to the gun enhancement law, that doesn’t require brandishing. Thing is … that law was not enacted until 7 months after the shooting.
The D.A. belatedly saw it Baldwin’s way and dropped the gun enhancement.
Here’s why it matters … if the gun enhancement charge stuck and Baldwin was convicted, he’d face a minimum of 5 years in prison. Now that it’s been 86’d, if Baldwin is convicted of involuntary manslaughter, he’d face up to 18 months behind bars, but the judge could give him less … or even probation.
The Alec Baldwin shooting occurred on October 21, 2021, during the filming of the movie “Rust” in New Mexico, USA. Baldwin, who was both a producer and actor in the movie, was handling a firearm on set when it discharged, killing cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and injuring director Joel Souza. Baldwin stated that he did not pull the trigger and did not realize the gun was loaded with live rounds.
An investigation was launched, and Baldwin was charged with involuntary manslaughter and reckless endangerment. However, the gun enhancement charge against Baldwin that was dropped means he may avoid a prison sentence even if found guilty.