A Utah judge on Monday ordered the release of transcripts from a closed-door hearing in October regarding whether Tyler Robinson, charged with the murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, must be shackled during court proceedings. State District Judge Tony Graf emphasized that public transparency is fundamental to the judicial system, ordering the transcripts to be posted on the court docket the same day. This decision follows efforts by attorneys representing media outlets, including The Associated Press, to make details of the closed session accessible to the public.
Robinson faces aggravated murder charges stemming from the shooting of Kirk on September 10 at Utah Valley University. Prosecutors intend to seek the death penalty in this high-profile case. The defense had previously requested that Robinson be allowed to appear in civilian clothing and without restraints, arguing that shackles might bias potential jurors against him.
Following an October 24 closed hearing, Judge Graf ruled that Robinson could appear in civilian clothing but still needed to wear leg shackles due to Utah court rules requiring restraints for defendants in custody unless otherwise ordered. Graf justified the decision, stating that the restraints would enhance safety for court staff and the defendant by facilitating a quick response in case of disruptions during proceedings.
In his ruling, the judge ordered the release of not only the transcripts but also an audio recording of the hearing, with some redaction to protect certain security details. Lawyers representing media entities highlighted the importance of open courts in maintaining the integrity of the judicial process and fostering public confidence.
Graf noted in a separate order that images of Robinson’s restraints could not be captured or broadcast by media outlets, limiting public access to some aspects of the proceedings. The preliminary hearing, during which prosecutors are expected to outline their case against Robinson, is scheduled for the week of May 18.
Robinson faces aggravated murder charges stemming from the shooting of Kirk on September 10 at Utah Valley University. Prosecutors intend to seek the death penalty in this high-profile case. The defense had previously requested that Robinson be allowed to appear in civilian clothing and without restraints, arguing that shackles might bias potential jurors against him.
Following an October 24 closed hearing, Judge Graf ruled that Robinson could appear in civilian clothing but still needed to wear leg shackles due to Utah court rules requiring restraints for defendants in custody unless otherwise ordered. Graf justified the decision, stating that the restraints would enhance safety for court staff and the defendant by facilitating a quick response in case of disruptions during proceedings.
In his ruling, the judge ordered the release of not only the transcripts but also an audio recording of the hearing, with some redaction to protect certain security details. Lawyers representing media entities highlighted the importance of open courts in maintaining the integrity of the judicial process and fostering public confidence.
Graf noted in a separate order that images of Robinson’s restraints could not be captured or broadcast by media outlets, limiting public access to some aspects of the proceedings. The preliminary hearing, during which prosecutors are expected to outline their case against Robinson, is scheduled for the week of May 18.
