The man accused of killing right-wing activist Charlie Kirk will be allowed to wear civilian clothes during pre-trial hearings, a Utah judge ruled, aiming to protect his presumption of innocence.
Judge Tony Graf said Tyler Robinson, 22, must remain in restraints for safety, but photos or videos showing him restrained will be banned. Robinson was arrested on aggravated murder charges on September 12, a day after Kirk was fatally shot while speaking at Utah Valley University.
Addressing the high public interest in the case, Judge Graf stressed that Robinson’s right to be presumed innocent outweighs the minor inconvenience of civilian attire.
“Given the severity of the charges, restraints remain necessary,” Judge Graf said, calling it the “least restrictive” option. He noted that although Robinson has no prior criminal record, the serious charges create courtroom safety concerns.
Robinson, who faces seven charges including aggravated murder, obstruction of justice, and felony discharge of a firearm, was not present in Monday’s virtual hearing. His next in-person court date is set for January 16.
Utah County prosecutors have announced they are seeking the death penalty in the case.
