Man Who Falsely Claimed to Be Charlie Kirk's Assassin Convicted of Child Sex Abuse Materials

George Zinn pleaded guilty to sexual exploitation of a minor and felony obstruction of justice charges.

Feb. 1, 2026 at 12:15pm

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George Zinn, 71, falsely claimed to be the assassin of conservative activist Charlie Kirk in order to distract police. After his arrest, authorities discovered child sex abuse materials on Zinn's phone. Zinn has now pleaded guilty to charges of sexual exploitation of a minor and felony obstruction of justice.

Why it matters

This case highlights the dangers of false claims and distractions that can impede law enforcement investigations, as well as the serious issue of individuals possessing child sex abuse materials.

The details

Moments after Kirk was fatally shot at Utah Valley University, Zinn began screaming that he had killed the conservative activist. Authorities tackled and arrested Zinn, but when police asked him about the gun, Zinn said he wouldn't tell them where it was. Zinn later admitted he was 'glad he said he shot the individual so the real suspect could get away.' Detectives later charged Tyler Robinson in Kirk's slaying. While receiving medical treatment, Zinn also admitted to having child sex abuse materials on his phone. Investigators found more than 20 images of children in sexual poses on Zinn's device.

  • On September 10, 2026, Charlie Kirk was fatally shot at Utah Valley University.
  • Immediately after the shooting, Zinn falsely claimed to be the assassin.
  • Zinn was arrested and admitted to having child sex abuse materials on his phone.

The players

George Zinn

A 71-year-old man who falsely claimed to be the assassin of conservative activist Charlie Kirk in order to distract police. Zinn has pleaded guilty to charges of sexual exploitation of a minor and felony obstruction of justice.

Charlie Kirk

The founder of Turning Point USA who was fatally shot at Utah Valley University.

Tyler Robinson

The individual who has been charged with the aggravated murder of Charlie Kirk. Robinson has pleaded not guilty, and prosecutors are seeking the death penalty.

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What they’re saying

“I wish the court to know I am not and will never be a danger to children or their parents.”

— George Zinn (Salt Lake Tribune)

“I want to put the past behind me and move forward.”

— George Zinn (Salt Lake Tribune)

What’s next

Zinn will be sentenced at a later date, and a state parole board will review his case to determine the length of his prison sentence.

The takeaway

This case highlights the serious consequences of making false claims to law enforcement, as well as the ongoing issue of individuals possessing illegal and abusive materials. It underscores the need for vigilance in addressing both public safety and child protection concerns.