Utah judge rules redacted transcript in Charlie Kirk assassination case can be released

A judge in Utah ruled Monday that a transcript and audio recording of a closed-door hearing related to the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk can be released with some redactions. 

The judge said that he believes the transcript from the October hearing will be released Monday, but the audio recording is expected to be released in the coming weeks after the necessary redactions are made.

Tyler Robinson, a 22-year-old, has been charged with aggravated murder, two counts of obstruction of justice, witness tampering and commission of a violent offense in the presence of a child for Kirk's death.

The closed-door hearing was related to whether Robinson could wear plain clothes during his court appearances and be unshackled. However, Judge Tony Graf ruled Robinson could wear what he wanted but would need to be restrained.

Graf said Monday that the transcript would include redactions of security measures but would not include details that are “already part of the public arena," according to The Hill.

“If this information poses a risk of violating defendant’s right to a fair trial, defendant’s first line of defense is found in the rules of evidence in criminal procedure,” Graf wrote.

The judge also declined a request for the news media to be treated as a limited party in the case, but said both sides are required to notify the press of some hearings and changes in the case.

Robinson's next court appearance is scheduled for Jan. 16, 2026.

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.