Tyler Robinson, Charged in Charlie Kirk’s Murder, Makes Court Appearance Amid Media Restrictions
By Nicole Weatherholtz | Thursday, 11 December 2025 04:04 PM EST
Tyler Robinson, 22, made his first public court appearance in a Utah courtroom Thursday, marking his initial appearance since his arrest in connection with the fatal shooting of conservative leader Charlie Kirk.
Robinson entered the courtroom flanked by his attorneys, who have been urging the court to impose strict restrictions on media access for the high-profile case. The defense team requested that Judge Tony Graf prohibit cameras and public observation during proceedings.
Kirk was fatally shot at a speaking event hosted by Utah Valley University on September 10, an attack witnessed by hundreds of people.
Previously appearing only through remote video links, Robinson reportedly maintained composure during his court appearance and occasionally smirked while speaking with his legal team. As he entered the courtroom, he glanced toward the row reserved for family members, where his visibly emotional mother wiped away tears.
The defense sought permission for Robinson’s parents to remain in the courtroom but was denied by Judge Graf. The judge has acknowledged the intense public scrutiny surrounding the case and implemented measures intended to protect Robinson’s presumption of innocence.
At a closed hearing on October 24, attorneys discussed whether Robinson would appear in prison garb or street clothes, as well as security protocols. It was decided that Robinson may wear civilian clothing during pretrial hearings but must remain restrained. The judge also prohibited the media from photographing or filming the restraints, citing concerns that such images could unfairly influence potential jurors.
A coalition of news organizations urged the court to maintain public access, arguing that open proceedings “safeguard the integrity of the fact-finding process” and uphold public trust. Attorney Michael Judd, representing the coalition, emphasized that criminal proceedings in the U.S. have historically been open to the public.
Erika Kirk, Kirk’s widow, has called for full transparency, stating, “We deserve to have cameras in there.”
Robinson’s attorneys claim the case generated such widespread media attention it reached the White House, noting President Donald Trump publicly stated after Robinson’s arrest: “With a high degree of certainty, we have him,” and expressed hope that Robinson would face the death penalty if convicted.
Investigators suggest Robinson may have been motivated by left-wing extremist ideology and radicalized online, though no specific motive has been proven in court.
