Court Denies Ex-Girlfriend’s Testimony Request in High-Profile Case
A judge has declined a motion by Tyler Robinson’s attorney to subpoena his ex-girlfriend for in-person testimony during next month’s court proceedings.
Robinson, aged 23, faces serious accusations in connection with the murder of Charlie Kirk, a right-wing activist who was killed last year following a debate at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. The charges against him include aggravated murder.
Judge Rules on Subpoena and Alternative Evidence
On Monday, Judge Tony Graff Jr. sided with prosecutors by granting a motion to quash the defense’s request to compel Lance Twiggs to testify at a preliminary hearing scheduled for July 6.
Twiggs, who was dating Robinson at the time of the alleged murder, was referenced in court under the name “Mr.” However, legal representatives have confirmed that he identifies as transgender and prefers the name “Luna.”
Prosecution’s Evidence Strategy
The prosecution argued against the need for live testimony from Twiggs, stating that they will rely on pre-recorded interviews in which Robinson purportedly confessed to the murder. Additionally, the evidence includes claims that he hid the weapon and instructed Twiggs not to alert authorities.
Evidence Presentation and Hearsay Ruling
Judge Graff indicated that the prosecution would also present handwritten notes, text messages, and other pertinent evidence exchanged between Robinson and Twiggs. He further dismissed Robinson’s motion to prevent the state from using hearsay to establish probable cause at the upcoming preliminary hearing.
Preliminary Hearing Context and Future Proceedings
According to Graff, the Utah Constitution permits the use of reliable hearsay to substantiate probable cause, emphasizing that the preliminary hearing serves a different purpose than a trial. He clarified that this stage does not determine guilt or innocence.
The next court session is slated for Friday morning, where additional matters will be addressed, including the defense’s request to subpoena seven forensic witnesses before the July preliminary hearing.
Background on the Case
Charlie Kirk, founder of the conservative youth organization Turning Point USA, was fatally shot during an event at Utah Valley University in September 2025. Robinson surrendered to the sheriff’s office the following day and was subsequently charged with several felony counts, including aggravated murder and multiple counts of witness tampering.
Should he be convicted, prosecutors are preparing to seek the death penalty. Robinson has not yet entered a plea regarding the charges.
Defense Counsel’s Concerns Over Media Coverage
Earlier this month, the defense team petitioned the court to eliminate the possibility of the death penalty, citing media statements and prosecutors’ comments that allegedly violated a judge’s prior directive prohibiting such commentary outside of court. They are also requesting limitations on media coverage, contending that public scrutiny jeopardizes Robinson’s right to a fair trial.
To further protect the constitutional rights of all parties involved, Graf announced that electronic devices would be prohibited in the courtroom during the preliminary hearing next month.
