Armorer Sentenced to Maximum Penalty in 'Rust' Shooting
Hannah Gutierrez-Reed Found Guilty of Involuntary Manslaughter
18-Month Prison Sentence for Loading Live Round on Film Set
Former armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed has been sentenced to the maximum penalty of 18 months in prison for her role in the fatal on-set shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the film set of 'Rust'.
Gutierrez-Reed was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter in January after a jury concluded that she failed to take proper safety precautions when loading a live round into a gun that was handed to actor Alec Baldwin. The gun discharged, killing Hutchins and injuring director Joel Souza.
During the sentencing hearing, Santa Fe District Attorney Mary Carmack-Altwies argued that Gutierrez-Reed had shown "extreme recklessness" in her handling of firearms on set. She said Gutierrez-Reed had ignored numerous safety protocols and had failed to properly inspect the gun before handing it to Baldwin.
Gutierrez-Reed's defense attorney, Jason Bowles, argued that his client was not solely responsible for Hutchins' death. He said that Baldwin himself had failed to follow safety procedures and had ultimately pulled the trigger. He also noted that the production company had created a chaotic and unsafe environment on set.
In the end, the jury agreed with the prosecution's argument that Gutierrez-Reed had been negligent in her duties and had caused Hutchins' unnecessary death. The 18-month sentence is the maximum allowed under New Mexico law for involuntary manslaughter.
Gutierrez-Reed's sentencing brings closure to the legal proceedings surrounding the 'Rust' shooting. However, the tragedy has sparked a wider debate about safety protocols on film sets and the need for stricter gun control measures.
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