Andrea Reeb, a special prosecutor in Alec Baldwin’s shooting incident case, resigned on Tuesday after the actor’s legal team deemed her participation unconstitutional. Reeb, who also serves as a New Mexico state representative, explained that her decision to step down from the Rust case was a difficult task.
The public would remember the tragic event that took place in 2021 after Rust cinematographer Halyna Hutchins got fatally shot on set. Baldwin pleaded not guilty to the charges, while armory head Hannah Gutierrez-Reed faces similar accusations.
Alec Baldwin’s Lawyers Successfully Removed Special Prosecutor On The Rust Shooting Case
Baldwin’s lawyers filed a motion to disqualify Andrea Reeb on February 7 due to her dual role as a New Mexico House of Representatives member and a special prosecutor. A hearing is scheduled on March 27 for Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer to listen to both parties, but Reeb unexpectedly resigned. She said (via People):
“After much reflection, I have made the difficult decision to step down as special prosecutor in the Rust case. My priority in this case – and in every case I’ve prosecuted in my 25-year career – has been justice for the victim.”
She also explained the reason for stepping down from her position and asserted that her role in court would not meddle with the real issue.
“However, it has become clear that the best way I can ensure justice is served in this case is to step down so that the prosecution can focus on the evidence and the facts, which clearly show a complete disregard for basic safety protocols led to the death of Halyna Hutchins. I will not allow questions about my serving as a legislator and prosecutor to cloud the real issue at hand.”
Baldwin is also facing a civil lawsuit from Hutchins’ family, while three crew members filed for negligence and intentional infliction of emotional distress against the actor and the movie’s producers.
Baldwin’s Lawyers Are Confident On Winning The Case
After Alec Baldwin pleaded not guilty, his lawyer Luke Nikas of Quinn Emanuel said that the charges against the Rust actor “represents a terrible miscarriage of justice.” He also added:
“Mr. Baldwin had no reason to believe there was a live bullet in the gun — or anywhere on the movie set. He relied on the professionals with whom he worked, who assured him the gun did not have live rounds. We will fight these charges, and we will win.”
It is still not clear who will take over the case after Reeb left. The First Judicial District Attorney’s office said that Carmack-Altwies and Jennifer Padgett Macias might work on the said case. A preliminary hearing is set to commence on May 3, which will last for two weeks. Baldwin’s lawyers have expressed their cooperation.
Source: People
