Trial hears Robinson 'intimidated' Daily Mail reporters
Political activist Tommy Robinson is on trial at Southwark Crown Court, facing charges of harassment against two Daily Mail journalists. Prosecutors allege he used intimidatory tactics following the 2024 Southport attacks, while the defense maintains his innocence.
Why it matters
The case raises questions about the boundaries of political activism, online harassment, and the safety of journalists.
Image source, Toby Melville/Reuters Image caption, Tommy Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, arrives at Southwark Crown Court for his five-day trial
Political activist Tommy Robinson used "bully-boy, intimidatory tactics" to frighten two Daily Mail journalists, forcing them to employ security or leave home, a court has heard.
The 43-year-old from Bedfordshire, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, is charged with two counts of harassment causing fear of violence towards reporters Andrew Young and Jacob Dirnhuber.
Opening the trial, prosecutor Ben Holt said the case was about Yaxley-Lennon's reaction to what he perceived to be "an unnecessary intrusion into his holiday" in the aftermath of the 2024 Southport attacks.
Robinson, who founded the English Defence League, entered not guilty pleas to the charges in July last year.
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