Utah defense seeks to bar death penalty amid media comments in Kirk shooting case

In Provo, Utah, 23-year-old Tyler Robinson’s defense asked the court to rule out the death penalty after Deputy County Attorney Christopher Ballard discussed the case with media outlets, arguing the statements violated a court order and could prejudice jurors; prosecutors say the remarks were measured and non-prejudicial, and Judge Graf will rule later. Robinson has not entered a plea, but prosecutors intend to seek the death penalty if convicted. The case follows the killing of Charlie Kirk during a campus event at Utah Valley University last year, which has drawn substantial media attention.