In a shocking turn of events, George Zinn, a 71-year-old man who claimed responsibility for the shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, faces new and disturbing legal troubles. Just a week after the incident at Utah Valley University, Zinn has been charged with child pornography alongside his initial arrest for allegedly obstructing justice.
The chaotic scene unfolded shortly after Kirk was shot in the neck during an event on campus. Witnesses reported panic among students as Kirk’s staff rushed him to safety in a vehicle, but unfortunately, it was too late to save him. Shortly after the shooting, Zinn approached police, declaring, “I shot him, now shoot me.” However, when officers inquired about the weapon, Zinn reportedly refused to disclose its location.
Despite his confession, police could not proceed with formal questioning after Zinn requested an attorney. During an initial interview, he expressed his belief that he would face consequences for claiming to have shot Kirk, later stating he had done so to divert attention from the real shooter.
As the investigation unfolded, Zinn’s claims garnered mixed reactions online, with some doubting his involvement. However, newly released documents reveal that Zinn later admitted to FBI agents that he was not the shooter and had wished to be a “martyr” for Kirk.
Upon further investigation, Zinn’s phone was examined, revealing harrowing content related to child pornography. According to a probable cause affidavit, Zinn confessed to possessing images of prepubescent girls and admitted to being sexually aroused by children aged five to twelve. Authorities discovered over 20 images of child erotica on his device, some of which he shared with contacts under false pretenses, claiming they were his daughters.
Zinn’s arrest is not his first run-in with the law. He has a history of misdemeanors, including a 2013 incident where he threatened to place bombs at the Salt Lake City Marathon, leading to a felony charge of making a terroristic threat. More recently, he was arrested at a board meeting for disorderly conduct.
Zinn is currently being held without bail as investigations into both his involvement in Kirk’s shooting and the child pornography charges continue. Investigators have stated there is no evidence linking Zinn to Tyler Robinson, the alleged assassin of Kirk, who remains in custody facing aggravated murder charges and potential death penalty prosecution.
As this case unfolds, the implications of Zinn’s actions raise serious concerns about public safety and the broader issues surrounding violent political discourse. The legal proceedings ahead will determine the full extent of Zinn’s culpability and the potential ramifications of his disturbing admissions.
