Alec Baldwin Takes Legal Action Against New Mexico Prosecutors in “Rust” Case

Person holding lawsuit document at desk with laptop

Alec Baldwin has taken legal action against New Mexico prosecutors, accusing them of malicious prosecution in the “Rust” film incident.

At a Glance

Alec Baldwin is suing New Mexico prosecutors and law enforcement for malicious prosecution.
The lawsuit includes claims of defamation and violation of Baldwin’s civil rights.
Officials are accused of pursuing charges for personal gain and professional agendas.
Baldwin seeks punitive damages for legal expenses, loss of income, and emotional distress.

Baldwin’s Legal Retaliation

Alec Baldwin filed a civil lawsuit against New Mexico prosecutors and law enforcement, alleging malicious prosecution related to the fatal shooting on the “Rust” film set. The lawsuit claims that these officials defamed Baldwin and violated his civil rights by pursuing charges motivated by personal agendas and political gain rather than justice. These charges against Baldwin were dismissed earlier due to prosecutorial failures in evidence sharing, triggering his decision to seek retribution.

The lawsuit names special prosecutor Kari T. Morrissey, Santa Fe District Attorney Mary Carmack-Altwies, and others as defendants. Baldwin’s attorneys emphasized that prosecutors should not act on personal motives and underscored the toll of such misconduct on Baldwin, seeking unspecified damages for legal costs, loss of income, and emotional distress. Despite the dismissal of criminal charges, Baldwin continues to face civil suits from the victim’s family and film crew members.

Actor Alec Baldwin has filed a civil lawsuit for malicious prosecution and civil rights violations in the fatal shooting of a cinematographer on the set of the Western movie “Rust.” https://t.co/ZggV69OTPt

— ABC Action News (@abcactionnews) January 10, 2025

Implications of Prosecutorial Conduct

The charges of involuntary manslaughter were dropped after questions arose regarding evidence handling. Baldwin’s complaint claims that the state’s actions were inconsistent with standards of justice, alleging that evidence, including unexamined bullets, was withheld. Baldwin asserts that the defendants should not benefit from immunity typically granted to prosecutors and seeks accountability for prosecutorial misconduct.

“Criminal prosecutions are supposed to be about the search for truth and justice, not to pursue personal or political gain or harass the innocent.” – Baldwin attorneys Luke Nikas and Alex Spiro

Despite the dismissal of charges, friction remains between Baldwin and the prosecution, who claim readiness for civil court proceedings. Public appearances and plans for a reality TV show signal Baldwin’s return to the spotlight, even as civil litigation continues. The legal battle underscores tensions about accountability and actors’ rights on set, drawing attention to prosecutorial power in high-profile cases.

Future Legal Challenges

Baldwin’s legal team faces the challenge of proving prosecutorial immunity does not apply to the defendants’ actions. The lawsuit argues against the individuals involved, asserting they knowingly violated Baldwin’s rights. In his complex legal journey, Baldwin seeks vindication and to highlight procedural flaws, aiming to stave off similar misuse of power on others.

Baldwin’s legal pursuit remains entangled in ongoing litigation—both connected to the “Rust” incident and broader legal principles related to prosecutions. With broadcasters and industry experts closely observing the proceedings, Baldwin’s actions could influence future legal campaigns and cultural perceptions regarding the entertainment industry’s legal responsibilities.