Far-right activist Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, known as Tommy Robinson, 43, began his trial at Southwark Crown Court on October 19, 2026, facing two counts of harassment causing fear of violence against MailOnline journalists Andrew Young and Jacob Dirnhuber. The trial is expected to last five days.

This trial addresses allegations of threatening behavior by a public figure against members of the press, raising important questions about the safety of journalists and the boundaries of online conduct.

What the Records Show

The prosecution alleges that the harassment occurred between August 5 and 7, 2024, after Robinson perceived MailOnline's reporting as "an unnecessary intrusion into his holiday". Prosecutor Ben Holt stated in court that Robinson "threatened" the journalists. Robinson is accused of using "bullyboy, intimidatory tactics" which allegedly caused the journalists to fear for their safety, with some reportedly employing security or leaving their homes.

Specific threats cited by the prosecution include a phone call on August 5, 2024, where Robinson allegedly told Andrew Young, "I'm coming to get you". On the same day, he is accused of sending a direct message on X (formerly Twitter) to Jacob Dirnhuber stating, "I'll be knocking at your door". The prosecution claims Robinson used his X account to harass both journalists and their family members while he was on holiday in Europe.

The Timeline

Robinson, a co-founder of the English Defence League (EDL), pleaded not guilty to the charges of harassment causing fear of violence at Westminster Magistrates' Court on June 5, 2025. He formally entered not guilty pleas to the charges in July 2025, ahead of the scheduled five-day trial. On October 2, 2026, Robinson appeared at Southwark Crown Court, confirming his name.

What the Subject Has Said Publicly

On October 18, 2026, the Sunday evening before the trial commenced, Robinson posted on social media, thanking supporters for "messages of love and support ahead of the latest round of lawfare being used against me". On the opening day of the trial, October 19, 2026, Robinson arrived at Southwark Crown Court to cheers from supporters, including one wearing a Union Flag suit, and spoke to them outside the court building.

What We Could Not Confirm

We could not confirm the exact dates Robinson was on holiday in Europe when the alleged harassment occurred. We also could not confirm the specific family members allegedly harassed via Robinson's X account.