A Utah judge has ordered the release of records from a closed hearing regarding Tyler Robinson, charged with aggravated murder in the September 10 shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University. State District Judge Tony Graff emphasized the importance of public transparency in the justice system. Robinson’s defense lawyers have raised concerns that releasing images of him in shackles could bias juror opinions. They have requested a ban on courtroom cameras, arguing it would help protect Robinson’s presumption of innocence.
While Robinson appeared via audio from jail, Graff ordered him to wear shackles during hearings for security reasons, though he may wear casual clothes. The judge has restricted media from publishing visual material showing Robinson restrained. He has also rejected a media request to intervene formally in the case, asserting that reporters do not need to be part of the proceedings to access court records. The preliminary hearing for Robinson is set for May 18.
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