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 Fatal Shooting and Criminal Proceedings

Baldwin was holding a prop gun on the Rust movie set when it discharged, killing Hutchins in October 2021. According to the lawsuit, Baldwin was handed the weapon after a crew member yelled “cold gun” to indicate it contained only dummy rounds. Instead, the prop fired a live round that proved fatal.

Criminal charges against Baldwin were dismissed in July 2024 after his defense team successfully argued that prosecutors had buried evidence. Prosecutors later dropped their appeal notice in December 2024, effectively ending the criminal case.

Dangerous Legal Territory: The Immunity Shield

Legal analysts suggest Baldwin and his attorneys may have unknowingly ventured into treacherous legal waters by targeting sitting prosecutors. District attorneys enjoy “absolute immunity” for actions taken within their official duties, creating a nearly impenetrable shield against malicious prosecution claims.

This immunity exists specifically to allow prosecutors to perform their duties “vigorously and without fear of constant harassment or intimidation from disgruntled defendants,” according to established legal doctrine.