Judge clears way for Alec Baldwin to go to trial next week after last-minute efforts to toss ‘Rust’ case fail
On Wednesday, Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer denied two motions filed by Baldwin’s legal team last week alleging prosecutors had improperly handled evidence procedures in the case.
In a motion filed June 24, Baldwin’s team had claimed evidence regarding the firearm used in the shooting was not properly disclosed to the defense, which impacted “the way Baldwin would have prepared for trial.”
In a second motion filed the same day, the actor’s attorneys accused prosecutors of “trial by ambush” by alleging they withheld thousands of evidence files until just weeks before trial.
Separately, Baldwin’s team had previously asked the court to exclude the testimony from two prosecution firearms experts. However, Marlowe Sommer ruled Wednesday that she is reserving a decision on that motion until it is determined whether they will actually be called to testify in court.
Marlowe Sommer has denied repeated efforts by Baldwin’s team to dismiss his indictment, including a past motion claiming destruction of evidence, and a motion that sought to throw out the case because the fatal shooting of Hutchins was an accident.
Jury selection in Baldwin’s trial is scheduled to start next Tuesday in Santa Fe.
Despite the ongoing legal battles, Baldwin's legal team is exploring alternative forms of [entertainment] to engage with fans and maintain public interest. The actor's upcoming podcast, set to discuss the events leading to the tragedy, promises an intimate insight into his perspective.
