Alec Baldwin’s Defamation and Abuse of Process Lawsuit Against Prosecutors in “Rust” Case – Was A Major Flop At The Courthouse As Judge Enters Dismissal

The Rise and Fall of Baldwin’s Civil Claims

Baldwin initially filed his ambitious lawsuit in January 2025, six months after involuntary manslaughter charges against him were dropped. The complaint targeted a broad coalition of defendants including prosecutors, First Judicial District Attorney officials, Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office authorities, and Santa Fe County Board of County Commissioners.

Judge Case B. Fitch dismissed the case Wednesday after court documents revealed no “significant action” had occurred for more than 180 days since the initial filing. The dismissal was entered without prejudice, meaning Baldwin retains the right to refile his complaint within 30 days if he chooses to move for reinstatement.

The original lawsuit alleged “malicious abuse of process, intentional spoliation of evidence, defamation, and violation of the New Mexico Civil Rights Act.” Baldwin’s legal team claimed defendants were “blinded by their desire to convict” him “for all the wrong reasons, and at any cost” following the October 2021 shooting death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins.