Judge Denies Motion To Remove Prosecutors In Charlie Kirk Assassination Case

A Utah judge on Tuesday rejected an effort by Tyler Robinson’s defense team to disqualify prosecutors in the case accusing him of assassinating Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk.

Robinson’s attorneys argued that a conflict of interest existed because the daughter of deputy county attorney Chad Grunander was present at Kirk’s September 10, 2025 event at Utah Valley University, where the shooting occurred. They claimed her presence required the prosecution to be recused.

State District Judge Tony Graf dismissed the request, ruling that the daughter’s attendance at the event did not materially influence the prosecution’s handling of the case. He also found that she had no unique or relevant information that would make her a key witness.

Prosecutors countered that there was no conflict of interest, noting that Grunander’s daughter did not have a direct line of sight to the shooter and did not immediately realize Kirk had been shot until after she had run to safety. Utah County Attorney Jeffrey S. Gray argued in court filings that there was virtually no risk that the situation would impair the prosecution’s ability to proceed fairly.

Robinson, who appeared virtually at the hearing, faces an aggravated murder charge and is eligible for the death penalty under Utah law. He has not yet entered a plea. Prosecutors have indicated they intend to pursue capital punishment.

The defense has also previously argued that the decision to seek the death penalty was influenced by President Trump, who publicly stated after the assassination that he hoped the killer would face the death penalty. Prosecutors have denied that claim, saying the decision was made swiftly to avoid speculation and to provide clarity to the victim’s family.

Judge Graf’s ruling keeps the trial on track and marks another setback for Robinson’s legal team. The judge previously allowed cameras in the courtroom despite defense objections, finding that media access would not compromise Robinson’s right to a fair trial.