Judge orders release of transcript from closed hearing in case of man accused of killing Charlie Kirk

A Utah judge has ordered the public release of a transcript and audio recording from a previously closed courtroom hearing involving Tyler Robinson, the man charged with the murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The decision highlights ongoing debates about public access to court records, media coverage, and the rights of defendants in high-profile criminal cases.

The hearing, which took place in late October, was originally closed to discuss courtroom procedures and security concerns rather than matters of guilt or innocence. Judge Tony Graf ruled that the public should have access to the transcript and recording, stating that transparency in judicial proceedings is fundamental to the public’s trust in the justice system. While the court permitted limited redactions to protect sensitive security details, the overall content is now available to the public.

Robinson, 22, is facing multiple felony charges, including aggravated murder, in connection with the September 10 shooting of Charlie Kirk at a Utah Valley University campus in Orem, Utah. Prosecutors have indicated their intention to pursue the death penalty if Robinson is convicted. The defendant has not yet entered a plea.

During the closed hearing, Robinson’s attorneys raised concerns that images or video footage showing him in shackles or jail attire could unfairly bias potential jurors. They requested that he be allowed to appear in civilian clothing and without visible restraints during future hearings. The defense also sought to restrict media coverage, including a possible ban on cameras, to prevent the pretrial publicity from influencing jurors’ perceptions.

Judge Graf has since allowed Robinson to wear civilian clothing at pretrial hearings while maintaining some restraints for security purposes, in accordance with state court rules. The judge also issued instructions limiting media coverage, warning outlets not to publish photographs or videos that depict Robinson’s restraints, emphasizing the need to preserve the fairness of the trial process.

Media organizations argued in court that public access to judicial proceedings is essential for transparency and accountability. They requested that the transcript and audio of the closed hearing be released so that journalists and the public could observe how procedural decisions are made. The judge agreed, while maintaining a balance with the defendant’s rights, allowing limited redactions for security matters.

The hearing itself addressed procedural matters including how Robinson would be presented in court, the use of restraints, and the presence of cameras. These topics, while not related to the facts of the case, are considered critical in high-profile criminal trials because they can influence public perception and jury impartiality.

Robinson attended the Monday hearing via an audio feed from Utah County Jail, rather than in person. This arrangement is common for defendants in custody, especially in cases that receive significant media attention. It allows the court to manage security risks while still giving the defendant the opportunity to participate in procedural proceedings.

Judge Graf also addressed whether media organizations should be granted formal “intervenor status,” which would provide them with standing in the case and automatic notice of future requests to close hearings. He denied this request, explaining that news organizations do not need formal party status to seek access to court records, but must be notified in advance if a motion is filed to close a hearing or seal documents.

The case has attracted widespread attention due to the high-profile nature of Charlie Kirk’s death, which occurred during a campus event attended by numerous students and community members. The incident prompted national coverage and discussions about safety, security, and public access to judicial proceedings in cases involving prominent figures.

Prosecutors are expected to outline their case against Robinson during a preliminary hearing scheduled for May 18, 2026. The release of the closed hearing transcript provides insight into how the court manages procedural issues, media access, and defendant rights in preparation for such hearings. Observers and legal analysts note that procedural decisions made early in high-profile cases can have a significant impact on the fairness and transparency of subsequent proceedings.

Judge Graf’s ruling underscores the tension between two important principles: the public’s right to open courts and the defendant’s right to a fair trial. Maintaining this balance is particularly challenging in cases that attract extensive media coverage and national attention. The released transcript allows the public to understand how judges weigh these competing interests while ensuring that security and procedural concerns are addressed.

By releasing the transcript and audio recording, the court is providing a window into the judicial process, showing how decisions are made regarding courtroom procedures, media access, and the appearance of defendants. While some sensitive information remains redacted, the order promotes accountability and transparency while protecting the rights of the defendant.