A New Mexico judge declined a plea from Hannah Gutierrez Reed, the armorer involved in the fatal shooting on the set of the movie "Rust," to contest her conviction for involuntary manslaughter, AP News reports.

The 'Rust' armorer faced charges stemming from the tragic incident in October 2021 when cinematographer Halyna Hutchins was fatally shot by Alec Baldwin during a rehearsal.

Following a brief virtual hearing presided over by Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer, Gutierrez Reed's request for a new trial was denied, and she will remain in custody until her sentencing scheduled for April.

Hannah Gutierrez Reed's Sentencing and Legal Challenges

The jury's verdict in early March found 'Rust' armorer Hannah Gutierrez Reed guilty of involuntary manslaughter but acquitted her of evidence tampering charges.

The court proceeding took place virtually over Google Meet, with Gutierrez Reed participating remotely from the Santa Fe County Adult Detention Facility.

During the trial, Special Prosecutors Kari Morrissey and Jason Lewis argued that Gutierrez-Reed's negligence led to live rounds being present in the firearm handled by Alec Baldwin on the set of "Rust."

However, Gutierrez Reed's defense presented various theories, including the possibility of sabotage, to explain the presence of live ammunition, according to Deadline.

The 'Rust' armorer faces a potential sentence of up to 18 months in prison and fines totaling around $5,000. Her sentencing is set for April 15.

Despite efforts by her legal team to secure a new trial based on alleged confusing jury instructions, Judge Sommer upheld the jury's decision.

At the same time, Alec Baldwin, who consistently asserts that he did not fire the gun responsible for Hutchins' death, is also confronting allegations of involuntary manslaughter.

Baldwin's trial is scheduled for July 9, with potential penalties mirroring those faced by Hannah Gutierrez Reed if convicted.

Baldwin Seeks Dismissal of Involuntary Manslaughter Case

In a separate development, Alec Baldwin, the actor-producer involved in the "Rust" tragedy, is pushing for the dismissal of his involuntary manslaughter case ahead of the upcoming trial scheduled for July, Mirror noted.

Baldwin's legal team has filed a petition alleging misconduct by the Santa Fe District Attorney's Office, claiming violations of the grand jury process and a threat to Baldwin's right to a fair trial.

The petition cites unethical behavior and disparagement by prosecutors, as well as procedural errors.

The charges against Baldwin originate from the unintentional shooting incident during the production of "Rust" in 2021, leading to the tragic passing of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins.

Alec Baldwin contends that the prosecution's actions have compromised his ability to receive a fair trial.

If convicted, Baldwin could face a maximum sentence of 18 months in prison.

Jury selection is slated to commence on July 9, followed by the trial from July 10 to July 19. Baldwin maintains his innocence against all charges brought against him.

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Ross Key

WATCH: Judge Denies 'Rust' Armorer Hannah Gutierrez's Release Before Sentencing - From Law&Crime Trials