New Mexico prosecutors want to try Alec Baldwin in court again. A grand jury will have to decide whether the actor will face a new charge of involuntary manslaughter for the 2021 death of "Rust" cinematographer Halyna Hutchins.
"One source added that Baldwin’s case will be brought before a grand jury in mid-November. There had been recent discussions of a plea deal to a petty misdemeanor that was rescinded over the weekend, according to two sources familiar with the matter," NBC reported.
One of the NBC sources explained that the decision was made after an additional investigation that led prosecutors to no longer believe that the weapon had been modified. They claim to "have found new evidence that they believe connects Baldwin to recklessness around safety standards on the set," NBC detailed.
As the prosecutors explained, the charge could result in up to 18 months in prison if convicted. "We believe that based on our lengthy and detailed investigation that it is appropriate for a grand jury in New Mexico to make a decision on whether the case should proceed," special prosecutor Kari Morrissey told the station.
Up to 18 months if convicted
Likewise, Baldwin's lawyers explained that they are ready to respond to any accusation in court. "It is unfortunate that a terrible tragedy has turned into this wrongful prosecution. We will respond to any charges in court," the actor's attorneys Luke Nikas and Alex Spiro said in a statement obtained by NBC.
Months ago, prosecutors dropped the involuntary manslaughter charges against Alec Baldwin. At that time, they alleged the emergence of "new facts" that led them to make this decision. "We cannot proceed under the current time constraints and on the facts and evidence turned over by law enforcement in its existing form. We therefore will be dismissing the involuntary manslaughter charges against Mr. Baldwin to conduct further investigation. This decision does not absolve Mr. Baldwin of criminal culpability and charges may be refiled."
