Alec Baldwin demands Rust manslaughter trial happens 'sooner than later' due to scrutiny

Alec Baldwin has filed for his constitutional right to a speedy trial after being charged with involuntary manslaughter for the shooting of Halyna Hutchins. 

The actor has been ordered to appear before a judge in New Mexico after prosecutors indicted him for a second time over the fatal shooting on the set of his movie Rust.

In 2021, Alec became embroiled in a high-profile case after a prop firearm he was holding discharged, resulting in the death of cinematographer Halyna and injuring director Joel Souza.

The 65-year-old maintained that he believed the gun was loaded with blanks and was unaware of live ammunition.

Although the charges were initially dropped three months later, special prosecutors, Kari Morrissey and Jason Lewis were not satisfied and sent the gun for further forensic testing.

Read more: Alec Baldwin escorted away by police after shouting match with protestors

After Alec’s defense team questioned whether his Colt .45 was working correctly when it fired, firearm experts claimed the gun could have only fired if the trigger was pulled.

Prosecutors also countered that he should have personally checked that the gun was not loaded with live ammunition, despite such ammo already being banned on movie sets. 

According to new court documents obtained by TMZ, he has until February 1 to officially plea to the charges. He has consistently denied any responsibility for the shooting. 

The documents reportedly saw Alec’s attorneys request to use the actor's constitutional right to a speedy trial. 

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They argued that the ongoing media interest in his case could alter a jury's ability to be impartial.

It noted a speedy trial would “minimize public vilification and suspicion,” and may ”avoid the hazards of proving his innocence that often arise after a lengthy delay in prosecution.”

Following the second set of charges, his attorneys Alex Spiro and Luke Nikas stated they “look forward to our day in court.”

If convicted, Alec could face up to 18 months in prison.