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Charlie Kirk case update: Tyler Robinson scores big win in court; judge rules on suspect's request
Tyler Robinson, who is accused of assassinating Charlie Kirk last month, scored a big win in court on Monday.
Tyler Robinson, who is accused of assassinating Charlie Kirk last month, scored a big win in court on Monday. Judge Tony Graf ruled on the 22-year-old's request to wear civilian clothes during all of his upcoming hearings. While Robinson will be allowed to wear civil clothes, the judge said he must still be in shackles for safety reasons.
Kirk, a popular conservative commentator and cofounder of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot on September 10 while speaking at an outdoor event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. Robinson was charged with aggravated murder and other felonies. Prosecutors said they are seeking the death penalty for the suspect.
Days after Tyler Robinson's first court appearance, his lawyers asked the judge to allow him to attend trial in civilian clothes ‘to maintain the presumption of innocence’ and protect his right to a fair trial. The team cited a similar motion granted in Bryan Kohberger's trial.
However, Christopher Ballard, a spokesperson for the Utah County Attorney’s Office, said that prosecutors opposed the request, citing security concerns.
Judge Tony Graf's ruling
Judge Tony Graf ruled on Monday that Robinson ‘shall be dressed as one who is presumed innocent’ during all pretrial hearings. However, the 22-year-old will have to remain in shackles. The judge said that he faces ‘extraordinarily serious’ charges.
"To date this has not occurred and the presumption of innocence remains," Graf said. "Balancing these factors, the court finds that Mr. Robinson's right to the presumption of innocence outweighs the minimal inconvenience of permitting civilian attire."
Graf further added that the sheriff's office will use the least restrictive restraints necessary and prohibited the media from taking photos or videos to avoid any influence on the jury. There was no ruling on cameras during the trial.
"The safety of Mr. Robinson, the attorneys, court staff, and the public must remain the court's highest priority. The emotional nature of these proceedings also raise the risk of disruption. Given these factors, the defendant's request to appear without restraints is denied."
