Key witness to not testify in person at Tyler Robinson’s preliminary hearing

PROVO, Utah (NBC, KYMA) - Tyler Robinson's former roommate, whom the court says he was in a romantic relationship with, will not have to testify in person at Robinson's preliminary hearing.

On Monday, Fourth District Judge Tony Graf ruled hearsay evidence is acceptable for the purposes of a preliminary hearing including a video-recorded interview with Lance Twiggs and denied a request from defense attorneys to compel Twiggs to attend the preliminary hearing in person.

Judge Graf delayed his ruling, however, on whether the Utah County Attorney's Office should be held in contempt of court. That decision is now expected Friday.

The decisions come as Robinson and his defense team are renewing their efforts to keep cameras and microphones out of the courtroom during his upcoming preliminary hearing.

Robinson is accused of shooting and killing political activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025. He faces a potential death sentence if convicted.

Graf also ruled Monday that the right to subpoena witnesses is not absolute, and unless the defense expects to get testimony during cross-examination that is "reasonably likely to defeat probable cause" established by the state, a recorded interview with a witness is sufficient.

Because of that, Graf denied Robinson's motion to compel Twiggs to appear in person.

Robinson's preliminary hearing is scheduled for July 6 through July 10.