SANTA FE, NEW MEXICO: In the ongoing legal aftermath of the tragic incident on the set of the movie “Rust,” former armorer Hannah Gutierrez Reed faces the possibility of an 18-month prison sentence for involuntary manslaughter. This development comes after Gutierrez Reed was found guilty in March for her role in the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, who was fatally shot by a prop gun held by actor Alec Baldwin during filming.
Gutierrez Reed, who was responsible for firearm safety and storage on the movie set, is set to be sentenced soon and may also face a $5,000 fine. The case has shed light on the safety standards within the movie industry, particularly in relation to firearms handling and protocol adherence, with Gutierrez Reed’s actions being highlighted as negligent and ultimately responsible for Hutchins’ tragic death.
Alongside Gutierrez Reed, Baldwin is also facing charges of involuntary manslaughter in connection to the incident. Special prosecutors have claimed that Baldwin’s behavior on set contributed to safety compromises that led to the fatal shooting, adding another layer of complexity to the legal proceedings.
Despite Gutierrez Reed’s attorney requesting a conditional discharge in light of her clean criminal record and positive contributions, the special prosecutor’s office is pushing for the maximum sentence, citing Gutierrez Reed’s failure to take responsibility for her actions. Additionally, revelations from jailhouse calls where Gutierrez Reed allegedly shifted blame onto others and made derogatory remarks about the legal system have further complicated her case.
In a separate development, Gutierrez Reed is facing an unrelated charge of unlawful carrying of a firearm in a licensed liquor establishment, adding to the legal challenges she currently faces. The outcome of these legal battles will not only impact Gutierrez Reed’s future but also serve as a stark reminder of the importance of safety protocols and accountability in the film industry.