Tyler Robinson wears 'anti-suicide smock' at first court appearance: How does it work?

Tyler Robinson appeared via video in Utah court wearing a suicide smock. Smock prevents ligature use. He is jailed on murder charges and is on suicide watch.

Charlie Kirk shooting suspect, Tyler Robinson, appeared at the Utah County Justice Court in Provo, Utah, on Tuesday as the murder charges were pressed against him. The 22-year-old appeared via video conferencing from his jail cell, where he was seen wearing a suicide smock.

Tyler Robinson appears in court via video feed from jail as he makes his first appearance at Utah County Justice Court in Provo.(via REUTERS)

As reported earlier, Robinson has been placed on a suicide watch in jail, which means the jail authorities fear that he might commit suicide in jail, and hence are putting him on special watch to make sure that he cannot take such action.

The anti-suicide smock, also often referred to as a turtle suit, helps with suicide prevention. Here's it how it works:

What Is An 'Anti-Suicide Smock' And How Does It Work

An anti-suicide smock (also called a turtle suit or suicide gown) is a tear-resistant, single-piece garment used in hospitals, jails, and mental-health settings to reduce the risk of hanging or using clothing to self-harm. It’s made of stiff, quilted material, has no cords or zippers, and can’t be folded into a noose.

“The murder of Charlie Kirk is an American tragedy,” Judge Jeff Gray said, announcing the charges. “Charlie Kirk was murdered while engaging in one of our most sacred and cherished American rights, the bedrock of our democratic republic, the free exchange of ideas and a search for truth, understanding and a more perfect union.”