Defense lawyers for Tyler Robinson, the suspect in the assassination of Charlie Kirk, are urging a judge in Utah to restrict public access during a significant hearing and to seal certain evidence. This comes after their attempt to remove news cameras from the courtroom was unsuccessful.
The evidence that prosecutors plan to present includes recordings from Discord, text messages, video footage of the shooting, along with various statements and notes, as outlined in court documents.
The defense wants to shield the public from testimony or exhibits that might later be deemed inadmissible in court. Prosecutors countered that the motion was filed too late and lacked clarity on what specific testimony or evidence should be kept private.
Robinson, 22, faces charges for the fatal shooting of Kirk, 31, during a Turning Point USA event at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025. Kirk was addressing a crowd of around 3,000 when he was struck by a sniper’s bullet.
Kathy Nester, the lead attorney on Robinson’s defense team, has requested a hearing from Judge Tony Graff Jr. to determine whether certain pieces of testimony and evidence can be sealed before the preliminary hearing, where prosecutors are anticipated to present their case.
“This is a tactical move by the defense,” explained Randolph Rice, a legal analyst following the case. He indicated that the defense believes restricting certain proceedings could help maintain an unbiased jury.
He elaborated that preliminary hearings often allow the introduction of evidence and statements that wouldn’t normally make it to a trial jury. Thus, the defense aims to minimize public exposure to such information to prevent influencing future jurors.
If found guilty, Robinson could face the death penalty, and it’s common for defense attorneys to raise numerous issues under these circumstances, according to Rice.
He added, “By seeking limitations on cameras, public access, and the sealing of exhibits, they aim to preserve the defendant’s right to a fair trial and mitigate potential appellate problems down the line.”
In reaction to the defense’s strategy, prosecutors suggested excluding DNA evidence from the hearing, arguing there is justifiable reason for its absence.
Nevertheless, Judge Graff granted the defense’s request to delay the hearing—now set to take up to four days—moving it from mid-May to early July.
A lawyers’ coalition representing multiple news organizations opposed closing parts of the hearing, emphasizing that such proceedings are typically public unless specific exceptions apply.
Robinson turned himself in at a sheriff’s office just two days after the shooting incident. Prosecutors assert he made statements to friends and family, and he is currently being held without bail, having not yet entered a plea.
