Judge Recuses from Richard Glossip Case; New Judge Appointed, Hearing Scheduled Next Month

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — The judge presiding over parts of Richard Glossip’s post-conviction legal proceedings stepped down after a request from Glossip’s lawyers, and a new judge has been assigned. The change delays a high-profile hearing now scheduled for next month

Background on the case

Richard Glossip’s case has drawn national attention for years. Convicted in a 1997 murder trial, Glossip has pursued multiple appeals and legal motions arguing for review of his conviction and sentence. His case has been the subject of activism and legal debate in Oklahoma and beyond.

Why the judge recused

Judge Heather Coyle recused at the request of Glossip’s defense team; the court filed no public explanation. Coyle’s background includes time as an Oklahoma County prosecutor. Defense attorneys did not publicly disclose detailed reasons for the recusal.

New judge and what’s next

Judge Kathryn Savage, a former prosecutor and assistant attorney general, has been assigned to the case. A hearing on Glossip’s latest motion is set for next month, where his attorneys will argue for relief from the sentence or other post-conviction remedies.

“We look forward to presenting our arguments before the new judge,” a statement from Glossip’s legal team said.

Why this matters

Glossip’s case remains one of Oklahoma’s most closely watched capital cases, touching on issues of evidence, prosecutorial conduct, and the death penalty. Any developments could influence public debate about capital punishment and post-conviction review standards in the state.

Radio Oklahoma News Network will continue to cover the Glossip hearing and any related court filings as the case moves forward.