Tyler Robinson, charged in the shooting death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, was scheduled to make his first appearance in court during his preliminary hearing on Thursday.
But on Monday his preliminary hearing was postponed until Jan. 16, and his arraignment will follow on Jan. 30.
Robinson’s attorneys filed requests on Oct. 9 to allow their client to appear before court unrestrained and in civilian clothing.
In a hearing Monday afternoon, 4th District Judge Tony Graf granted Robinson’s request to wear civilian clothing but struck the request for him to appear without restraints.
“Mr. Robinson shall be dressed as one presumed innocent,” Graf said.
Graf also granted a media restriction request.
To allow Robinson “personal dignity” and maintain his image of innocence until proven guilty, media personnel will not be allowed to record Robinson’s restraints or him entering or exiting the court room.
While Graf said Robinson has had “no record of misconduct while in custody,” the judge added that the safety of the defendant, court staff and others “remains the highest priority.”
“Given these factors, the defendants request to appear without restraints is denied,” Graf said.
What was Tyler Robinson charged with?
Utah County Attorney Jeff Gray is pursuing the death penalty for the following seven charges:
- Count 1: Aggravated murder, a capital felony, that the defendant intentionally or knowingly caused the death of Charlie Kirk.
- Count 2: Discharge of a firearm causing serious bodily injury, a first degree felony. The defendant targeted Charlie Kirk because of political motives, knowing children would be present.
- Count 3: Obstruction of justice, a second degree felony, for moving firearm used in a crime.
- Count 4: Obstruction of justice, a second degree felony, for disposing clothing he wore during the shooting.
- Count 5: Witness tampering, a third degree felony, directing his roommate to delete his texts.
- Count 6: Witness tampering, a third degree felony, for directing his roommate to stay silent.
- Count 7: Violent offense in the presence of a child, a class A misdemeanor.
Kirk was shot and killed during a “Prove Me Wrong” debate at Utah Valley University on Sept. 10. Robinson allegedly shot Kirk from the roof of the Losee Center, a building next to the grassy amphitheater at UVU where Kirk was interacting with 3,000 students and visitors. He was apprehended on Sept. 12.