Utah Judge pledges fair trial for Charlie Kirk's accused assassin Tyler Robinson

Utah Judge Tony Graf stated Monday, September 29, that Tyler Robinson, 22, accused of assassinating Charlie Kirk, maintains a presumption of innocence until each charge element is proven beyond a reasonable doubt. Graf pledged to protect Robinson's constitutional rights throughout the criminal proceedings.

Graf addressed the court during a procedural hearing, emphasizing his commitment to fair administration of justice in the case.

"Let me be clear: I will not put my finger on the scale of justice," the judge said. "These proceedings will be open to the public, conducted in accordance with the law and handled with diligence and competence to ensure that justice is never compromised."


Also read: After Charlie Kirk, Steven Crowder hosts ‘Change My Mind’ debate at SMU amid heightened security: All abou

Graf said he would carry out his duties with "fidelity, transparency and impartiality" and urged both Utah prosecutors and defense counsel to do the same.

"Regardless of who is watching, whether it is the nation or single individual, we must fulfill our roles with integrity, civility and diligence," he said to the lawyers. "I encourage each of you to give your very best to this case. Neither Mr. Robinson nor the people of Utah deserve anything less than the fair and impartial administration of justice."

Defense attorney requests additional time to review evidence

Robinson's newly appointed counsel, Kathryn Nester, indicated the defense does not intend to waive a preliminary hearing where the state must demonstrate sufficient evidence to proceed to trial. Nester requested additional time to review the "voluminous" amount of evidence before formalizing the decision.

Graf granted the request, scheduling another hearing for October 30. Robinson is expected to attend that hearing in person. He participated in Monday's hearing virtually with the camera off.

Prosecution pledges professional approach to case

Prosecutor Chad Grunander told the court that parties are working together to establish a process for exchanging discovery "as quickly as possible."

In response to Graf's remarks about case conduct, Grunander said the Utah County attorney's office promises to approach the case with "integrity, with professionalism and civility."

"We are truth seekers," Grunander said. "We will aggressively pursue the truth in this case."

Robinson faces seven charges including aggravated murder

The government brought seven charges against Robinson earlier this month after Kirk was struck in the neck with a single bullet and killed while speaking at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, on September 10.

Also read: Florida's Lake County names road after Charlie Kirk following September assassination

One charge is aggravated murder, which carries a possible death sentence. Utah County Attorney General Jeff Gray said the state will pursue capital punishment.

Additional counts include felony discharge of a firearm causing serious bodily injury, obstruction of justice, witness tampering, and commission of a violent offense in the presence of a child.