Robinson, 22, appeared in court on September 16, only speaking to confirm his name as he sat silently while Judge Tony Graf read the seven charges against him. The most serious charge is first-degree murder with aggravating circumstances, while other charges include obstruction of justice and witness tampering.
"I am recommending the death penalty," said Utah prosecutor Jeff Gray. "I do not take this decision lightly. My recommendation is based entirely on the evidence, the circumstances, and the nature of the crime." Prosecutor Gray cited long messages exchanged between Robinson and his roommate, who was transitioning from male to female. According to Gray, Robinson and the roommate had a romantic relationship.
On the day of the murder, Robinson texted his roommate saying he had left a note under his keyboard. "I have an opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk, and I will do this," the note read.
The roommate then asked Robinson why he killed Kirk. "I've had enough of this guy's hatred. Some hatred can't be resolved with words," Robinson replied, later asking the roommate to delete the conversation.
Robinson is accused of shooting Kirk in the neck, which led to the death of Kirk, a close ally of U.S. President Donald Trump, at an event at Utah Valley University last week. A large-scale manhunt ended 33 hours later when Robinson's parents convinced him to surrender, with the assistance of a retired police officer friend.
Kirk, known for his large social media following, used his platform to advocate for conservative positions, including strong opposition to the transgender rights movement. He often posted videos from his debates at various universities.
FBI Director Kash Patel came under heavy criticism for his actions following the shooting, including the initial announcement of the suspect's capture, only to later retract it.
One of the two people involved in the incident, who was detained on September 16, has been charged with possessing child pornography unrelated to Kirk's murder, according to the Utah County Sheriff's Office.