Special prosecutor in Alec Baldwin case to step down

The special prosecutor handling the case against actor Alec Baldwin over a fatal shooting that occurred while filming "Rust" will step down, the office of New Mexico's First Judicial District Attorney confirmed on Tuesday.

Baldwin's lawyers had previously argued that she ought to step down, citing her role as a sitting state representative in the New Mexico legislature, Fox News reported.

"After much reflection, I have made the difficult decision to step down as special prosecutor in the 'Rust' case," Reeb said in a statement. "My priority in this case—and in every case I’ve prosecuted in my 25-year career—has been justice for the victim. However, 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."

"I will not allow questions about my serving as a legislator and prosecutor to cloud the real issue at hand," she continued.

Baldwin has pleaded not guilty to an involuntary manslaughter charge stemming from the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, whom Baldwin shot while filming. 

The actor has since settled a civil dispute with Hutchins' widower, Matthew, who has assumed the role of an executive producer on the film, which will continue production. Despite the settlement with Matthew, Halyna Hutchins' parents and sister have brought a separate suit against the actor.

Ben Whedon is an editor and reporter for Just the News. Follow him on Twitter.