Bloomberg Law Weekend Law: Judges Threatened, Sacred Tribal Site & Death Penalty
Sep 20, 2025
Bloomberg legal reporter Madlin Mekelburg dives into the high-stakes case of Tyler Robinson, who faces charges for the shooting of activist Charlie Kirk, including the implications of seeking the death penalty. Retired judges Andre Davis and Paul Michel highlight the alarming rise in threats against judges and the urgent need for judicial independence. Heather Whiteman Runs Him discusses the Western Apache's struggle to protect sacred lands at Oak Flat from mining, emphasizing tribal religious rights and recent legal strategies for preservation.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Death Penalty Sought Early In Case
- Tyler Robinson appeared virtually and was informed the state will seek the death penalty for aggravated murder.
- Prosecutors cited political-target aggravators and children present as grounds for capital pursuit.
Text And DNA Are Central Evidence
- Prosecutors released texts allegedly showing Robinson admitting involvement and describing motives about "enough of his hatred."
- They also say DNA from the rifle trigger and towel match Robinson, tying him to the weapon.
Online Chats Under FBI Review
- Robinson allegedly joked about the shooting in Discord chats, which the FBI is investigating.
- Those chats haven't yet appeared in initial charging documents but may be used later as evidence.