Hannah Gutierrez-Reed Granted Hearing That Could Secure Freedom or New Trial

Hannah Gutierrez-Reed is set to receive a hearing in September that will determine whether she can be freed from prison or receive a new trial, leaving many wondering about the outcome.

At a Glance

Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, Rust armorer, granted a hearing in September for potential release or new trial
Convicted of involuntary manslaughter in March for the fatal shooting of Halyna Hutchins
Currently serving an 18-month prison sentence
Hearing set for September 27 at 3:30 p.m. EST, to be live-streamed
Alec Baldwin’s involuntary manslaughter charges were dismissed last month

Background on Gutierrez-Reed’s Legal Troubles

Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, the armorer on the “Rust” film set, was convicted of involuntary manslaughter following the tragic shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. The incident has brought significant legal challenges for Gutierrez-Reed and actor Alec Baldwin, who was involved in the incident. Baldwin’s charges were dismissed, but Gutierrez-Reed is currently serving an 18-month prison sentence.

The complexities surrounding the shooting incident have led to Gutierrez-Reed’s legal team seeking a new trial. They argue that crucial evidence, including a report on “unexplained tool marks” on the gun used, was withheld by the prosecution. This alleged misconduct forms the basis of their request for a new trial or the dismissal of charges.

Gutierrez-Reed was sentenced to 18 months in prison after being convicted in March of involuntary manslaughter.https://t.co/csoClfxn0j

— WTKR News 3 (@WTKR3) July 17, 2024

Upcoming Hearing Details

The New Mexico judge has scheduled a hearing for September 27 at 3:30 p.m. EST, which will be live-streamed. This hearing will determine whether Gutierrez-Reed can be freed from prison or granted a new trial. The defense contends that the same information that led to Baldwin’s acquittal should apply to Gutierrez-Reed as well. This includes allegations of “severe and ongoing discovery violations” by the state.

The prosecutor has denied any allegations of misconduct and stands firmly against granting a new trial. Meanwhile, Gutierrez-Reed’s lawyer insists that “bombshell exculpatory evidence” was withheld, which would have resulted in a different trial outcome for his client. The withheld evidence reportedly concerns “unexplained tool marks on critical surfaces of the trigger and sear” of the firearm used in the incident.

In the fatal "Rust" movie set shooting case, convicted armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed could get out of prison or get a new trial. https://t.co/ZPHNv4zPxU

— KOB 4 (@KOB4) August 21, 2024

Implications of the Hearing

The New Mexico Court of Appeals has granted a motion allowing the First Judicial District Court to rule on the request for a new trial. If this request is granted and Gutierrez-Reed is acquitted, her appeal would become moot. However, if the new trial is denied, her legal team will continue to fight the conviction through the appeal process.

This high-profile case has significant implications for industry practices related to firearm safety on film sets. It has already sparked changes and debates within Hollywood, affecting how future productions may handle prop guns and ammunition.

Conclusion

As the hearing date approaches, all eyes will be on the New Mexico courtroom. The decision could impact Gutierrez-Reed’s immediate future and possibly set precedence for legal and safety standards in the film industry. The September 27 hearing could either bring freedom for Gutierrez-Reed or prolong her legal battles. For now, the legal community and the film industry await the court’s ruling.

As the judge deliberates, the case serves as a stark reminder of the gravity and complexity of film set safety and the dire consequences of oversight and error.