Video Testimony from Former Lover of Charlie Kirk’s Accused Assassin to Play in Court
Judge Tony Graf Jr. ordered the redaction of approximately 16 minutes of a 37-minute video statement from Lance Twiggs during the preliminary hearing of Tyler Robinson. Robinson is the suspected assassin of Charlie Kirk. The court is currently determining probable cause in Provo, Utah.
The Legal Dispute Over the Twiggs Testimony
Prosecutors initially planned to play the video testimony of Lance Twiggs, Robinson’s former lover, on Wednesday. However, defense attorney Richard Novak raised constitutional concerns, arguing that televising what the public would perceive as a “confession” before a trial could jeopardize the proceedings. Judge Graf agreed, ruling that about 16 minutes of the roughly 37-minute recording must be redacted before it can be played in open court.
The contested footage reportedly includes discussions of text messages, chat logs, and a specific note. While Novak denies that these documents constitute a confession, the prosecution claims they contain critical admissions. According to court records, some of these texts have already surfaced, with prosecutors alleging Robinson mentioned being “stuck in Orem”—the site of the shooting—and admitted to being “the one who did it.”
The Kirk family’s attorney, Jeff Neiman, vehemently opposed the redactions. Neiman argued that hiding evidence creates “doubt and distrust in the judicial system,” insisting the video be played in full for “all the world to see.” Despite this, Judge Graf maintained that the court has tools to ensure a fair trial regardless of the redactions, and he confirmed that the redacted portions will still be considered when he makes his final probable cause decision.
Emotional Stakes and Courtroom Dynamics
Erika Kirk, the widow of Charlie Kirk, was observed wiping tears and sharing emotional embraces with her mother-in-law, Kathy Kirk, as the legal arguments unfolded.
Tyler Robinson’s demeanor has also been a point of observation. He appeared visibly uneasy during the proceedings, particularly when Lance Twiggs was mentioned. Observers noted Robinson taking deep breaths, fidgeting, and repeatedly adjusting his suit jacket.
Timeline and Next Steps in the Preliminary Hearing
The preliminary hearing, which began on Monday, is now entering its final stages. Judge Graf has squelched speculation that the proceedings would extend beyond the original five-day window, stating the hearing will conclude by 5 p.m. Friday.
The redacted version of the Twiggs video is scheduled to be played Thursday morning. The outcome of this hearing will determine whether there is sufficient evidence to move the case toward a full trial. The case has drawn attention, with Donald Trump Jr. noting that the evidence appeared “more cut and dry” than he had initially anticipated.
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As the hearing closes on Friday, the focus will shift from the admissibility of video evidence to the judge’s final ruling on probable cause.
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