In a pivotal courtroom decision, New Mexico State Judge Mary L. Marlowe Sommer dismissed the emergency plea of “Rust” armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed for a new trial. The motion was grounded on alleged flawed jury instructions leading to her conviction in the tragic shooting death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins.
‘Rust’ Movie Armorer Denied New Trial : Motion Dismissal
During the hearing, Judge Marlowe Sommer discarded the two-page motion, describing it as “sparse.” This motion was presented by Gutierrez-Reed’s legal team, led by attorney Jason Bowles. Gutierrez-Reed, 26, was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter on March 6 for her involvement in the fatal incident on the set of “Rust.”
Denied Release
Furthermore, the judge denied Gutierrez-Reed’s petition for release pending appeal. Despite her attorney’s assertions that Gutierrez-Reed was not a flight risk and was actively involved in her father’s care, the judge upheld her decision, citing the severity of the charges and the jury’s determination of her involvement in the fatal shooting.
‘Rust’ Movie Armorer Denied New Trial : Pending Sentencing
Gutierrez-Reed’s sentencing is slated for April 15, marking a crucial phase in this high-profile case. The outcome of this sentencing will significantly impact the future trajectory of the legal proceedings.
Prosecution’s Case
The prosecution maintained that Gutierrez-Reed, responsible for overseeing weapons on the set, negligently introduced live ammunition, leading to the tragic shooting. The defense had based their plea for a new trial on a recent New Mexico Supreme Court ruling, but the judge found the circumstances inapplicable to Gutierrez-Reed’s case.
Legal Maneuvering
Gutierrez-Reed’s defense contended that the jury instructions were flawed, allowing jurors to mix elements from alternate counts and theories of involuntary manslaughter. However, the judge concluded that these instructions were distinguishable from the precedent cited by the defense.
‘Rust’ Movie Armorer Denied New Trial : Future Proceedings
The court is set to issue a written order on Monday, detailing the decision and its legal rationale. As Gutierrez-Reed remains in custody awaiting sentencing, the legal teams on both sides are gearing up for further proceedings in this closely watched case.
