FBI Ends Protection for Transgender Partner of Alleged Charlie Kirk Assassin
The FBI has terminated its protection of Lance Twiggs, the transgender roommate and partner of Tyler Robinson, who is accused of assassinating conservative activist Charlie Kirk. This decision comes despite Twiggs not facing any criminal charges and raises questions about the safety and security of potential witnesses in high-profile cases.
Why It Matters
The case surrounding Charlie Kirk’s assassination has stirred significant public and media interest, particularly given the ongoing discussions about violence against political figures. The decision to end federal protection for Twiggs underscores the complexities surrounding witness safety in volatile situations and raises concerns about the implications of reducing protective measures for individuals connected to such high-profile incidents.
Key Developments
- The FBI has concluded its protective measures for Lance Twiggs, who was previously under a security detail due to threats after the shooting.
- Twiggs moved to a townhome in St. George, Utah, after being expelled from his parents’ home at the age of 18.
- Authorities initially had difficulty locating Twiggs for questioning but he later cooperated with investigations.
- Robinson faces multiple charges, including aggravated murder and witness tampering, in connection with Kirk’s death.
- A judge is set to review a motion from Robinson to remove the Utah County Attorney’s Office from his case on January 16, which could affect the trial’s direction and timeline.
Full Report
Background on Lance Twiggs
Twiggs was reportedly living with his grandparents before moving into a townhome with several college roommates, contributing to household expenses and maintaining employment. A relative characterized Twiggs as a person who struggled with substance abuse and gaming addiction, which compounded his family issues. Despite these challenges, Twiggs managed to present himself as reformed.
After Robinson’s arrest, he and Twiggs had been in a romantic relationship, living together until the incident. Following the shooting, both individuals were given FBI protection due to potential threats against them.
Tyler Robinson’s Charges and Allegations
Robinson is charged with aggravated murder, along with several other serious offenses. He allegedly confessed to the crime in a series of text messages with Twiggs shortly before and after the incident. Authorities have cited a note found under a keyboard that detailed Robinson’s intent to kill Kirk, framing it as an act driven by what he described as Kirk’s pervasive hatred.
FBI’s Decision on Protection
Retired FBI special agent Jason Pack explained that the termination of protection for Twiggs was not uncommon in such cases. Pack noted that once a crucial phase of cooperation is completed, the necessity for ongoing security can diminish, particularly in the absence of credible threats. The FBI’s assessment may also be influenced by the substantial resources required for protective details, leading to reevaluation based on the current threat landscape.
Context & Previous Events
On September 10, 2025, Charlie Kirk was shot during a Turning Point USA event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. Following the assassination, there were immediate fears regarding the safety of those connected to the case, prompting increased security for Twiggs and his family. As Robinson awaits trial, the legal proceedings are expected to garner extensive media attention and scrutiny.
