Judge orders release of transcript from closed hearing for man charged with the murder of Charlie Kirk.
A Utah judge has mandated the release of a transcript from a closed-door hearing held in October regarding shackling measures for Tyler Robinson, the individual charged with the aggravated murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The ruling comes from State District Judge Tony Graf, who ordered that the transcript be made available on the court docket by the end of the day. This decision followed requests from media outlets, including The Associated Press, seeking transparency about the proceedings.
Robinson, accused of fatally shooting Kirk on September 10, 2025, at the Utah Valley University campus in Orem, faces significant legal repercussions as prosecutors prepare to seek the death penalty in this high-profile case.
In early October, Robinson’s defense team petitioned the court to allow their client to appear in civilian attire without physical restraints. They argued that such limitations could create bias among potential jurors. Following an October 24 closed hearing, Judge Graf determined that while Robinson could indeed appear in civilian clothes, he must remain restrained during court appearances, as dictated by Utah court rules which mandate that custodial defendants be restrained unless the court rules otherwise. The judge highlighted that the use of restraints is not merely procedural but serves to protect both court staff and Robinson himself, ensuring safety in potentially disruptive situations.
On Monday, Judge Graf emphasized the importance of public transparency in the judicial process, which he described as foundational to maintaining trust in the system. He ordered the release of details from the closed hearing while permitting limited redactions focused on security protocols relevant to the case. Additionally, he directed that an audio recording of the hearing also be released with similar redactions.
Attorneys representing media outlets argued that open court proceedings uphold the integrity of the fact-finding process and help foster public confidence in the judicial system. Historically, criminal cases in the United States have been open to public scrutiny, allowing trials to be conducted fairly without infringing on media rights.
In another decision, Judge Graf denied a motion from media attorneys to formally intervene in the case, stating that press members could access court records without being formal parties to the proceedings. Robinson was not present in court during this session, instead participating via an audio link from the Utah County Jail. A preliminary hearing, where prosecutors will present their case against Robinson, is scheduled for the week of May 18, 2025.
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