Utah taxpayers are facing a legal bill potentially exceeding $10 million for the defense of Tyler Robinson, 23, who is accused of murdering Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk. Robinson's parents, Matthew and Amber Robinson, have largely remained silent as the case progresses, while Matthew Robinson has returned to running his family's masonry business in St. George, Utah.
Robinson was arrested in September 2025 after allegedly confessing to the murder. He was declared indigent by a judge, leading to the appointment of high-powered defense attorneys whose fees, along with expert witnesses and potential appeals, are expected to drive up the cost of the trial. Robinson's lawyers have requested an additional $2 million in state funding.
Prosecutors presented extensive evidence during a pre-trial hearing in July 2026, detailing Robinson's alleged confession to at least three individuals, including his former roommate Lance Twiggs. Evidence also suggested Robinson's increasing radicalization and a possible motive tied to his personal life. Twiggs testified that Robinson confessed to the killing and later turned himself in to authorities with his father and a family friend.
Matthew Robinson, whose masonry business is described as operating on word-of-mouth and client relationships, has continued his routine, commuting from his home to his warehouse. Multiple sources indicate that most of his clients have remained loyal despite the charges against his son. Court records from 2014 show that Matthew Robinson was previously sued by his brother, Clint Robinson, for alleged embezzlement of $100,000. The brothers later reached a confidential settlement.
Tyler Robinson had briefly attended Utah State University on a scholarship before dropping out. Friends, teachers, and neighbors have described him as a hardworking, church-going individual, though some noted a shift in his behavior and increasing political radicalization leading up to the alleged murder. The community in St. George, a predominantly Mormon area, has expressed a desire for the case to conclude.
Charlie Kirk was killed at Utah Valley University. Investigators recovered bullet casings allegedly engraved by Robinson with messages prior to the shooting. The high-profile nature of the case and the capital murder stakes contribute to the significant defense costs, according to legal experts.