PROVO, Utah — A Utah judge has ruled that Tyler Robinson, the 22-year-old accused of fatally shooting Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk, will be allowed to wear civilian clothing in future court appearances — but will remain in shackles while in the courtroom.
During Monday’s hearing, Fourth District Court Judge Tony Graf granted the defense’s request for Robinson to appear dressed in plain clothes, emphasizing the principle of the presumption of innocence. “Mr. Robinson shall be dressed as someone who is presumed innocent,” Graf declared. However, the judge declined to remove restraints, citing safety concerns.
Balancing Fair Trial Rights and Security Concerns
Robinson’s attorneys had argued that appearing in a jail jumpsuit could prejudice potential jurors, especially given the global attention surrounding the high-profile case. They claimed that allowing him to appear in civilian attire would help protect his right to a fair and impartial trial.
Prosecutors from Utah County opposed the motion, stating that jail-issued clothing aids in security and identification. After weighing both sides, Judge Graf ruled that the “minimal inconvenience” to the sheriff’s office was justified to uphold Robinson’s right to be treated as innocent until proven guilty.
While restraints will remain, the judge barred news outlets from photographing or filming Robinson’s handcuffs or ankle shackles, as well as any footage of him entering or exiting the courtroom.
Cameras in the Courtroom Under Review
Defense attorneys also requested a ban on cameras inside the courtroom altogether. Judge Graf said the issue was still under consideration and invited both sides to submit a joint motion if they wished to pursue a full camera ban.
The Case Against Tyler Robinson
Robinson faces seven criminal charges, including aggravated murder, following the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk on September 10, 2025, at Utah Valley University. The attack occurred while Kirk was addressing a packed auditorium of students and attendees. If convicted, Robinson could face the death penalty.
The defense has raised concerns about intense pretrial publicity, arguing that online discussions and viral videos from earlier hearings — where Robinson appeared on camera wearing a suicide-prevention smock — have distorted public perception. They described the media reaction as a “content tornado” blending fact, exaggeration, and false imagery.
Next Steps in the Legal Process
Robinson’s upcoming hearing, originally scheduled for Thursday, has been postponed at the defense’s request. Judge Graf announced that proceedings will resume January 16, 2026, when Robinson is expected to appear in person for the first time in court.
So far, Robinson has attended hearings via video from Utah County Jail. During Monday’s session, his camera remained off, and he only spoke once — confirming to the judge that he could hear the proceedings.
As the case continues to attract national attention, the court’s rulings on courtroom appearance, restraints, and media access will likely shape how the trial unfolds in the months ahead.
