Makers of “Rust” ordered to pay $100,000

Rust Movie Productions, who are the production company behind the movie Rust in which cinematographer Halyna Hutchins was fatally shot, have agreed to pay a $100,000 fine to New Mexico’s Environment Department’s Occupational Health and Safety Bureau (OHSB).

The OHSB initially issued a $136,796 fine, which is the maximum fine allowed by the state.  This was reduced to $100,000 as part of the settlement.

Under the terms of the settlement, the OHSB downgraded its claim from “wilful-serious” to a “serious” violation.

Melina Spadone, who is senior counsel at Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman and lawyer for Rust Movie Productions, issued a statement saying “We are pleased to have entered into an agreement with OHSB, subject to approval, which downgrades the citation and reduces penalties.

“Our top priority has always been resuming production and completing this film so we can honour the life and work of Halyna Hutchins.

“Settling this case rather than litigating is how we can best move forward to achieve that goal.”

Rust producers have confirmed that they will resume filming Rust later in spring at Yellowstone Filming Ranch in Montana.

Yellowstone’s co-founders offered the location to Rust.

They said that the decision to complete the film decision to finish the film had “deeply moved us”.

“We are honored to play a role in the realization of [Ms Hutchins’s] vision and to carry forward her inspiring legacy through championing this film,” they said in a joint statement.

Joel Souza will return as director with Alec Baldwin retaining his main role and role of producer.