Alec Baldwin, the American actor, has taken legal action against the prosecutor handling his case involving the shooting death of Halyna Hutchins. Baldwin has been charged with involuntary manslaughter and a firearms enhancement, which could result in a mandatory five-year prison sentence if convicted.
Baldwin’s legal team filed a motion on Friday, arguing that the firearms enhancement law used to charge Baldwin was not in effect at the time of the shooting, which took place in October 2021. The law in question was not passed by the New Mexico State Legislature until May 2022, seven months after the incident.
Baldwin’s lawyers also pointed out that the previous version of the firearms enhancement law required the firearm to be “brandished” with the intent to intimidate or harm another person. They argue that Baldwin had no intention of injuring anyone, thus rendering the enhancement charge invalid.
If the judge agrees and throws out the firearms enhancement charge, Baldwin’s punishment would be significantly reduced. He would face up to 18 months in prison and the possibility of probation. The stakes are high, as Baldwin’s legal team fights to reduce the charges and potential sentence.
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