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By Gabe Whisnant
News Editor
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A judge ordered the release of a redacted transcript from a closed-door hearing in the capital case against Tyler Robinson, the man accused of killing conservative activist Charlie Kirk, despite defense efforts to limit what the public can see.
Fourth District Judge Tony Graf Jr. said only 246 words were removed from the 80-page transcript, rejecting broader secrecy sought by Robinson’s attorneys. Graf said the transcript is expected to be released by the end of the day. He added that preparing and releasing a redacted audio recording of the hearing would take about two weeks.
Why It Matters
The decision came during a hearing on media access and transparency as the case proceeds in Provo, Utah. Attorneys representing several media outlets, including The Associated Press, had asked the court to make details of the sealed proceeding public, arguing that public access is essential to maintaining confidence in the judicial process.
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Monday's Tyler Robinson Hearing: What to Know
The hearing stemmed from a defense request to allow Robinson, 22, to appear in court in civilian clothing and without restraints, arguing shackles could prejudice potential jurors. Graf ultimately ruled in late October that Robinson could wear civilian clothes but must remain restrained, citing Utah court rules and safety concerns for courtroom staff and the defendant.
On Monday, Graf emphasized that public transparency is “foundational” to the judicial system, siding with media organizations that argued the sealed proceedings should be made public. At the same time, he maintained restrictions on showing Robinson’s restraints in courtroom photos or video and denied a separate media request to formally intervene in the case.
Robinson did not appear in person and participated by audio from jail. A preliminary hearing, where prosecutors are expected to outline their case, is scheduled for the week of May 18.
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When was Charlie Kirk shot?
Charlie Kirk was shot on Sept. 10 during a Turning Point USA event at Utah Valley University in Provo. Kirk was answering questions from audience members in a campus courtyard when a single shot was fired from a nearby rooftop, striking him in the neck. The 31-year-old conservative activist was rushed for medical treatment but died from what police described as a catastrophic gunshot wound. The shooting prompted an immediate campus lockdown and a large-scale search for the suspect.
When is Tyler Robinson back in court?
Tyler Robinson, 22, is scheduled to return to court in person on Jan. 16 for a longer hearing in Fourth District Court in Provo. The upcoming proceeding is expected to address several outstanding motions, including a defense request to recuse one of the prosecutors from the case. Robinson has made only one in-person court appearance since his arrest, with portions of the case unfolding behind closed doors. He has not yet entered a plea.
List of evidence against Tyler Robinson
Prosecutors say the evidence against Robinson includes witness accounts, forensic findings and alleged confessions. Authorities allege Robinson fired a single shot from a rooftop overlooking the event, then fled the scene and discarded the suspected murder weapon, a Mauser .30-06 rifle, in a nearby neighborhood.
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Investigators say Robinson later returned home to southern Utah, where he allegedly confessed to his roommate and romantic partner, as well as to his parents. Police said those family members helped persuade him to surrender to authorities, and the roommate has cooperated with investigators without being charged. Prosecutors have said they intend to seek the death penalty.
Updates: 12/29/25, 3:06 p.m. ET: This article was updated with new information and remarks.
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