Alec Baldwin’s Civil Rights Lawsuit Against Santa Fe Prosecutors Dismissed
Actor Alec Baldwin’s civil rights lawsuit against Santa Fe prosecutors dismissed due to prosecutorial immunity.
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Alec Baldwin’s civil rights lawsuit against Santa Fe prosecutors has been dismissed by a U.S. District Judge, citing prosecutorial immunity. The case, which alleged malicious prosecution, was dismissed on Wednesday by Judge Kea Riggs, who acknowledged the ‘very disturbing picture of malicious prosecution’ but ruled that the prosecutors were protected by their immunity.
Background of the Lawsuit
The lawsuit followed Baldwin’s criminal trial for involuntary manslaughter, which was dismissed in 2024 after prosecutors were found to have withheld evidence. Baldwin and his attorneys claimed that the Santa Fe district attorney, Mary Carmack-Altwies, and special prosecutor Kari Morrissey manipulated evidence and elicited false testimony to secure a conviction.
Legal Ruling and Immunity
Judge Riggs concluded that the alleged misconduct by the prosecutors fell within the scope of their duties, shielding them from civil liability. The court emphasized that the doctrine of absolute prosecutorial immunity is crucial for the functioning of the judicial system, even in cases of gross misconduct.
Events Leading to the Lawsuit
In October 2021, Baldwin shot cinematographer Halyna Hutchins during a rehearsal for the film ‘Rust.’ Baldwin claimed the revolver fired unexpectedly when he pulled back the hammer, not pulling the trigger. Subsequent FBI analysis found that the trigger had to be pulled to release the hammer, contradicting Baldwin’s account.
Previous Legal Actions
Baldwin’s initial civil rights lawsuit was dismissed with prejudice in 2023, allowing him to refile after a 30-day reprieve. The latest dismissal marks the end of his attempt to hold the prosecutors accountable for alleged misconduct.
Conclusion
Neither Baldwin nor his attorneys have commented on the ruling, which underscores the legal protections afforded to prosecutors in the U.S. judicial system. The case highlights the complexities of balancing accountability with the need for prosecutorial independence.
Source: Breitbart
