A Utah judge has authorized the release of a transcript and audio recording from a closed-door hearing concerning the alleged assassination of Charlie Kirk, albeit with some redactions. The decision came during a hearing focused on determining the level of public access to the ongoing capital case in Provo, Utah.
Judge Tony Graf Jr. specified that the redactions to the 80-page transcript total 246 words. While the transcript is expected to be available immediately, the process of redacting the audio recording will take approximately two weeks before its release.
Tyler Robinson, 22, stands accused of firing a single shot from a rooftop on September 10th, striking the 31-year-old conservative speaker during a Turning Point USA event at Utah Valley University. The bullet struck Kirk in the neck as he answered questions from the audience in a campus courtyard.
The core of the current legal debate centers on the balance between transparency and the defendant’s rights. Media organizations are pushing for greater access to proceedings, seeking formal notification before any future attempts to close hearings or restrict courtroom access, including camera use.
Despite a motion filed by a coalition of media outlets, including Fox News, for formal intervention, Judge Graf denied the request. However, he reaffirmed a previous order requiring both prosecution and defense to notify the media of any intentions to hold hearings in private.
Robinson has only made one brief in-person court appearance since the shooting, leading to concerns about the case unfolding largely out of public view. This prompted the media’s demand for increased transparency and the opportunity to challenge any future secrecy.
The defense team had previously requested a ban on cameras in the courtroom, a motion the judge rejected. He deemed a complete ban “disproportionate,” instead opting for limitations on what footage could be broadcast.
Judge Graf emphasized a deliberate approach to redactions, stating he would “rather do it right and take more time than to be rash and miss the mark.” He intends to carefully consider which portions of the sealed hearing truly require continued protection.
Charlie Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, tragically succumbed to a catastrophic gunshot wound. Following the alleged attack, Robinson is said to have fled the scene, discarding a Mauser .30-06 rifle in a nearby neighborhood.
The victim left behind a wife and two children. After a four-hour drive south, Robinson allegedly confessed the shooting to both his roommate, Lance Twiggs, and his parents before ultimately surrendering to authorities in Washington County.
Twiggs is currently cooperating with the investigation and has not been charged with any crime. Investigators also acknowledge the crucial role Robinson’s parents played in persuading him to turn himself in.
Robinson is facing seven charges, including aggravated murder, a crime that carries the potential for the death penalty. Additional charges include felony discharge of a firearm, obstruction of justice, and witness tampering. He has yet to enter a formal plea.
The accused is scheduled to appear in court again on January 16th for a more extensive hearing. A key issue to be addressed will be a defense motion requesting the recusal of a prosecutor due to a family member’s presence at the time of the shooting.
