A civil lawsuit filed by a crew member alleging emotional distress from the “Rust” set incident in 2021 can proceed to trial. The case, brought by gaffer Serge Svetnoy, claims negligence and conscious awareness of unsafe practices by actor Alec Baldwin and production. While a judge dismissed an assault claim due to lack of intent, he ruled that a jury could find Baldwin’s actions recklessly disregarded the probability of causing emotional distress. A trial is scheduled for October 12th if no settlement is reached.
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A federal judge ruled that former President Donald Trump’s speech at the Ellipse on January 6, 2021, was not part of his official duties and thus not covered by presidential immunity. This decision allows a civil lawsuit brought by Democratic lawmakers and others to proceed. The judge found that the organization and content of the rally, as well as a phone call to Georgia’s Secretary of State, pointed to actions taken by an office-seeker rather than an incumbent president fulfilling his official capacity. This ruling is seen by plaintiffs as a step towards holding the former president accountable for his conduct on that day.
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In a significant development, 81 more women have joined a civil suit against Army Major Blaine McGraw, who is facing criminal charges for secretly filming patients. The civil lawsuit, which initially began in November, accuses McGraw of inappropriate touching, voyeurism, and covert filming during gynecological exams at Fort Hood in Texas. The updated complaint expands on these allegations, accusing McGraw of assault, sexual assault, and battery under Texas law. The case is expected to test the effectiveness of recent Pentagon reforms aimed at addressing sexual misconduct and supporting survivors.
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A Los Angeles jury awarded Cellin Gluck, a filmmaker, at least $2.2 million after he was shot in the face with a less-lethal munition by a Los Angeles sheriff’s deputy during a 2020 protest against police brutality. The jury found Los Angeles County liable for Gluck’s injuries and awarded him $3.5 million in damages, along with an additional $300,000 for his daughter’s emotional distress. Although the county intends to explore its options, including an appeal, it stated the awards will be reduced due to the protesters’ partial fault. Gluck’s attorney noted the verdict offers a measure of justice, yet the amount does not adequately compensate Gluck for his injuries and the lasting consequences of the incident.
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John Q. Hosedrinker