Special prosecutor exits Alec Baldwin ‘Rust’ case in New Mexico

Special prosecutor Andrea Reeb has stepped down from the criminal case against actor Alec Baldwin over the fatal 2021 shooting on the set of the film “Rust” in New Mexico. Reeb announced the move Tuesday amid a constitutional challenge to her serving in the role while holding a seat in the state House of Representatives.

Reeb was expected to serve as lead prosecutor against Baldwin and armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, both of whom face involuntary manslaughter charges in the October 2021 death of Halyna Hutchins.

In February, Baldwin’s attorneys filed a motion asking a judge to dismiss Reeb, citing the New Mexico Constitution. The attorneys argued Reeb could not “exercise any powers properly belonging” to the executive or judicial branches because of her position in the legislative branch.

A hearing on Reeb’s role as special prosecutor had been scheduled for March 27.

“It has become clear that the best way I can ensure justice is served in this case is to step down so that the prosecution can focus on the evidence and the facts, which clearly show a complete disregard for basic safety protocols led to the death of Halyna Hutchins,” Reeb said in a statement. “I will not allow questions about my serving as a legislator and prosecutor to cloud the real issue at hand.”

A spokesperson for the Santa Fe District Attorney’s Office said paperwork had been filed with the court to withdraw her role. It was unclear who might take the position Reeb is vacating. The office of Santa Fe County District Attorney Mary Carmack-Altweis declined to comment Tuesday.

Reeb remains a state lawmaker in the New Mexico House. Voters elected her to a first two-year term in November 2022.