Tyler Robinson, the 22‑year‑old accused of shooting conservative activist Charlie Kirk, has asked a Utah judge to let him wear civilian clothes instead of a prison jumpsuit, shackles and a suicide vest during court appearances. Robinson’s lawyers filed a 21‑page motion in the state’s 4th District Court Thursday, arguing that showing the defendant in jail garb could make jurors assume he is guilty and should receive the death penalty, putting his right to a fair trial at risk.
“Given the worldwide scrutiny, allowing Mr. Robinson to wear civilian clothing is a minor inconvenience compared to the real concern of securing an impartial jury,” the petition reads. The lawyers added that each case development brings thousands of headlines and social‑media posts, increasing the chance that prospective jurors will see Robinson in jail garb and view him as deserving of the death penalty.
The defense cited the case of Idaho murderer Bryan Kohberger, who killed four students in 2022 and was recently sentenced to life in prison. Kohberger’s lawyers had successfully argued that he be allowed to wear a suit and sit without handcuffs in pre‑trial court. Robinson’s team argues the same must apply here, pointing out the harsh appearance Robinson has had in court.
Robinson was shot to death with a rifle at Utah Valley University on Sept. 10, 2025. In a virtual hearing last month, he wore a “suicide smock,” a move the defense says could reinforce negative perceptions. Robinson faces aggravated murder and other charges that could carry Utah’s death penalty – a punishment President Trump has publicly supported, since he is a close friend of the slain activist.
Utah is one of five states that still use the firing squad for capital punishment. Robinson has not yet entered a plea. The next court date is Oct. 30. The case continues to draw national attention as the legal debate over pre‑trial appearance and jury impartiality unfolds.
Source: New York Post
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