New Mexico Judge Who Oversaw Baldwin Trial Steps Down \ Newslooks \ Washington DC \ Mary Sidiqi \ Evening Edition \ New Mexico Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer, who presided over the Alec Baldwin trial for the fatal “Rust” shooting, will retire at the end of May after 15 years on the First Judicial District Court. Her career included high-profile cases, including the conviction of Rust armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed. A nominating commission will recommend candidates to fill her position.
Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer’s Retirement: Quick Looks
- Stepping Down in May – Ends 15 years on New Mexico’s First Judicial District Court.
- Oversaw High-Profile Cases – Notably presided over the Alec Baldwin “Rust” trial.
- Dismissed Baldwin’s Manslaughter Charge – Citing mishandled evidence in the investigation.
- Handled Over 21,600 Cases – Including child molestation and vehicular homicide trials.
- Replacement Process Begins – A commission will nominate candidates for governor’s selection.
Deep Look
Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer to Retire After 15 Years on the Bench
Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer, the New Mexico state district judge who presided over some of the most high-profile criminal cases in recent history, including the Alec Baldwin “Rust” shooting trial, will officially retire at the end of May 2024.
Her departure from New Mexico’s First Judicial District Court marks the end of a 15-year career that included handling over 21,600 cases, from domestic violence and juvenile delinquency to high-profile Hollywood and homicide trials.
Court officials announced her retirement Thursday, stating that a judicial nominating commission will review applications and recommend candidates for appointment to Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham.
Marlowe Sommer’s Legacy on the Bench
Marlowe Sommer, who served as chief judge from 2019 to 2022, has been praised for her judicial integrity, fairness, and ability to handle complex legal proceedings.
“She has served with distinction, integrity, and an unswerving commitment to the rule of law,” said Chief Judge Bryan Biedscheid.
Reflecting on her career, Marlowe Sommer stated:
“It has been an honor and privilege to serve, but it’s time to step away from the hectic schedule of court business.”
She went on to recognize the work of court staff, attorneys, and law enforcement officials in upholding the legal system.
The Alec Baldwin “Rust” Case and Its Legal Impact
Marlowe Sommer’s name became internationally recognized due to her role in the Alec Baldwin “Rust” shooting case, one of the most scrutinized legal battles in recent Hollywood history.
The Fatal On-Set Shooting
In October 2021, a prop gun held by Alec Baldwin discharged, killing cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and injuring director Joel Souza on the set of the western film “Rust” in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Baldwin, who was both the lead actor and a co-producer, claimed he did not pull the trigger, stating that the gun went off after he pulled back the hammer.
The shooting resulted in criminal charges, civil lawsuits, and an industry-wide debate over firearm safety on movie sets.
Why Marlowe Sommer Dismissed Baldwin’s Charges
Baldwin was charged with involuntary manslaughter, but in June 2023, Marlowe Sommer dismissed the charge, citing critical errors in the prosecution’s handling of evidence.
Key issues that led to the dismissal included:
- Ammunition mishandling – A man brought live rounds to the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office, claiming they were linked to the shooting. Prosecutors later said the ammunition was unrelated, but Baldwin’s defense accused them of burying the evidence.
- Lack of disclosure – Baldwin’s attorneys argued that key evidence was not properly shared, leading to an unfair case.
The dismissal was a huge victory for Baldwin, but it did not clear him completely—as prosecutors could still refile charges based on new forensic reports.
Hannah Gutierrez-Reed Conviction
While Baldwin’s charges were dropped, “Rust” armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter in March 2024 for failing to properly inspect and secure the prop gun.
Marlowe Sommer presided over the case, ensuring a fair and thorough trial.
Other Notable Cases Handled by Marlowe Sommer
Beyond the Baldwin trial, Marlowe Sommer’s courtroom was the site of numerous major criminal cases, including:
- Gary Gregor (Child Molestation Case) – A former teacher convicted of sexually abusing multiple young students in Santa Fe public schools.
- Jeannine Jaramillo (Vehicular Homicide) – A wrong-way driver who killed a police officer and retired firefighter while trying to evade law enforcement.
- Domestic Violence and Juvenile Delinquency Cases – Throughout her tenure, she oversaw thousands of cases involving family violence, neglect, and juvenile crimes.
A Career Defined by Judicial Excellence
Before becoming a judge, Marlowe Sommer had an extensive legal career, serving as:
- A defense attorney
- An assistant attorney general
- A law clerk
- A hearing officer specializing in domestic violence and family law
Her vast experience across multiple areas of law made her a respected and fair-minded judge, balancing the needs of victims, defendants, and the justice system.
What Happens Next?
With her retirement effective at the end of May, New Mexico’s judicial nomination process will now begin.
The Judicial Nominating Commission will:
- Review applications from attorneys and judges seeking to fill her position.
- Recommend a shortlist of candidates to Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham.
- The governor will appoint a replacement, who will serve until the next judicial election, when voters will decide whether to keep the appointee on the bench.
Final Thoughts: A Judge Who Handled Justice With Integrity
Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer will leave behind a legacy of fairness, diligence, and strong judicial leadership.
Her high-profile rulings in the “Rust” shooting case placed her under intense public scrutiny, yet she remained committed to upholding the law—ensuring proper legal procedures were followed in cases involving celebrities, government officials, and everyday citizens alike.
Her departure will leave a void in New Mexico’s First Judicial District Court, but her impact on the legal system will be felt for years to come.
New Mexico Judge
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