PROVO, Utah — A Utah judge on Tuesday denied a defense motion to disqualify prosecutors handling the murder case against Tyler Robinson, the man accused of fatally shooting conservative activist Charlie Kirk during a rally last year.
State District Judge Tony Graf ruled that attorneys from the Utah County Attorney’s Office may continue to lead the prosecution, rejecting defense arguments that a potential conflict of interest required their removal.
The motion stemmed from the fact that a deputy county attorney’s adult daughter was present in the audience at the Utah Valley University event where Kirk was shot Sept. 10, 2025. Defense attorneys argued that her presence created a conflict of interest that could impair the prosecutor’s objectivity, particularly after the office announced it would seek the death penalty.
Prosecutors responded that the deputy county attorney’s daughter did not witness the shooting itself and was not a material witness. They also argued there was no evidence that the familial connection influenced charging decisions.
Judge Graf agreed, finding that the circumstances did not warrant disqualification of either the individual prosecutor or the entire office.
The defense had suggested transferring the case to the Utah Attorney General’s Office or another jurisdiction. The judge declined that request.
Robinson, 22, is charged with aggravated murder and additional counts in Kirk’s death and remains jailed without bail. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for May 18, when prosecutors are expected to present evidence ahead of a potential capital trial.
Kirk, co-founder of Turning Point USA, was addressing approximately 3,000 attendees at the university event when he was shot. Authorities arrested Robinson two days later.
READ NEXT: Iconic TV Personality Announces Congressional Bid
