FBI Criticized for Delayed Photo Release in Charlie Kirk Assassination Case

FBI agents reportedly waited nearly 12 hours before showing a photo of the Charlie Kirk assassination suspect to FBI Director Kash Patel and Deputy Director Dan Bongino, sparking outrage during a tense Thursday morning conference call. According to The New York Times, Patel slammed the agency’s “Mickey Mouse operations,” expressing frustration that the photo could have been released far earlier.

Tyler Robinson, 22, was arrested after a 33-hour manhunt that ended when his father, recognizing him from surveillance footage, convinced him to surrender. Robinson allegedly shot and killed conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University and now faces charges including aggravated murder, with prosecutors suggesting more charges may follow.

Former President Trump, speaking on Fox News, reiterated his call for the death penalty in the case. Utah Governor Spencer Cox confirmed Robinson is not cooperating with authorities but said his family has been. Robinson’s arrest has already stirred political and legal debate over the severity of punishment and the FBI’s procedural failures.

Robinson is being held without bail under “special watch” due to the nature of the crime and pending a mental health evaluation. His attorneys are expected to argue he acted alone and may cite mental health concerns in his defense. Utah is one of 27 U.S. states where the death penalty is still legal, though executions are rare and often delayed for years.

Robinson’s court appearance is scheduled for Tuesday. Meanwhile, questions remain about the FBI’s internal handling of critical evidence in the early hours of the investigation, fueling criticism about transparency and communication within federal law enforcement.