Special prosecutor in Alec Baldwin’s manslaughter case to step down

A special prosecutor in the manslaughter case against Alec Baldwin is stepping away from the proceedings, The Associated Press is reporting.

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Baldwin’s legal team in February sought to disqualify special prosecutor and Republican state Rep. Andrea Reeb, of Clovis, New Mexico, the AP reported. Baldwin’s legal team said its objection was based on constitutional provisions that safeguard the separation of powers between distinct branches of government.

Reeb said in a statement Tuesday that she “will not allow questions about my serving as a legislator.” Reeb was appointed as a special prosecutor last year by District Attorney Mary Carmack-Altwies,

“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,” Reeb said.

Baldwin and weapons supervisor Hannah Gutierrez-Reed were charged with involuntary manslaughter in the shooting death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. Hutchins and the movie’s director, Joel Souza, were shot by a gun used by Baldwin as he was rehearsing a scene.

The charges carry a maximum penalty of 18 months in prison and fines.