Until conservative commentator Charlie Kirk was killed there last month, Utah County, Utah, was known mainly for its farms, orchards, and growing tech industry—not national headlines.

The assassination shocked the quiet community and left local officials scrambling to fund what could be a years-long, multimillion-dollar murder trial.

County leaders estimate the case will cost about $5 million, or 3.3 percent of their annual budget, covering defense fees, extra prosecutors, and heavy security whenever accused shooter Tyler Robinson is moved.

Robinson, who is jailed without bail, faces the death penalty, and his next hearing is set for October 30.

Commissioners say they’ve struggled to balance the financial and emotional strain, especially since neither Robinson nor Kirk lived in the county.

Finding defense lawyers willing to take the high-profile case proved difficult, but a three-member team—two from California and one from Salt Lake City—eventually agreed to represent Robinson.

Some residents have protested paying for the defense, but officials insist that ensuring competent representation is essential to prevent costly retrials.

County staff are combing through budgets to reallocate funds and avoid tax hikes while dealing with the emotional toll of the tragedy, the Wall Street Journal has reported.

The local government is also funding mental-health support for university students and employees affected by the killing.

As Utah County braces for a media storm reminiscent of past infamous cases, officials say their priority is to conduct a fair and secure trial that will stand up to national scrutiny.