Alec Baldwin’s Rust manslaughter trial set for July

Alec Baldwin is set to stand trial in July over the fatal shooting of Rust cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the movie’s New Mexico film set three years ago.

After he pleaded not guilty to the involuntary manslaughter charges earlier this month, a New Mexico judge ruled that the US actor’s trial will begin on 9th July and conclude 10 days later.

The film’s armourer, Hannah Gutierrez, is currently on trial in New Mexico for similar charges of involuntary manslaughter as well as one charge of tampering with evidence, referencing her alleged disposal of cocaine following the shooting.

Badlwin’s attorneys, led by Alex Spiro, had previously wanted the trial to begin a month earlier. “Mr. Baldwin has been dealing with this for several years,” Spiro said during a hearing last week. “We’re asking for a speedy trial.”

While Baldwin's initial manslaughter charges were dropped last April, the actor now faces two alternative counts of involuntary manslaughter, the first for the negligent use of a firearm and the second for acting without due caution.

If convicted, Baldwin could face up to 18 months of jail time.