Judge Orders Release of Court Transcripts in High-Profile Murder Case

Tue Dec 30 2025 00:37:46 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a significant decision, a Utah judge has ordered the release of transcripts from a closed hearing concerning the restraint of the defendant charged with the murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The judge emphasized the importance of public transparency in the judicial process.

Utah Judge Tony Graf mandated the release of transcripts and audio from a closed hearing about the restraint of Tyler Robinson, accused of murdering Charlie Kirk. Defense attorneys had requested that Robinson appear in civilian attire without restraints to avoid bias. The judge's ruling underscores the value of transparency in the judicial system, despite security concerns. The preliminary hearing for Robinson is set for May 18.

A Utah judge on Monday ordered the release of transcripts from a closed-door hearing regarding whether Tyler Robinson, charged with the murder of Charlie Kirk, should be restrained during court proceedings. State District Judge Tony Graf stated that the transcripts are to be posted on the court docket by day’s end, responding to appeals from media outlets like The Associated Press for public access to the hearing details.

Prosecutors have charged Robinson with aggravated murder following the shooting of Kirk on September 10 at the Utah Valley University campus in Orem. They intend to pursue the death penalty against him.

Defense attorneys for Robinson had requested that he be allowed to appear in civilian clothing and without restraints during court, citing the need to mitigate potential biases among jurors. However, Judge Graf ruled that while Robinson could appear in civilian clothes, he must remain shackled, as is standard procedure for defendants in custody unless the court orders otherwise.

Citing the importance of judicial transparency, Judge Graf ordered limited redactions to the transcripts, primarily removing discussions about security procedures. Additionally, an audio recording of the hearing was also ordered for release with certain redactions applied.

Advocating for open court proceedings, lawyers for the media argued that public trials ensure the integrity of the judicial process and bolster public trust in legal affairs. In a significant move for transparency, the preliminary hearing for Robinson is scheduled for the week of May 18.

Robinson attended the hearing via audio link from the Utah County Jail, where he is currently detained. Previous court sessions have seen restrictions on media coverage, including stopping a livestream to avoid showing the defendant’s restraints, underscoring ongoing concerns regarding courtroom security.