Far-right leader Tommy Robinson found guilty of harassment causing fear of violence
After a week-long trial, far-right agitator Tommy Robinson has been found guilty of harassing two MailOnline journalists, causing both Jacob Dirnhuber and Andrew Young to fear violence.
What Happened
MailOnline reporters authored a story and captured photographs of Robinson relaxing in a pool in Cyprus, which he says violated his right to privacy and made him susceptible to threats to his and his family’s lives.
The former EDL leader has for years been vocal about his disdain for Muslims and Islam, calling the religion “backward” and “fascist”, in what many feel is a full-circle moment for a man many accuse of preaching hate himself.
A sentence has not yet been given, and Robinson, real name Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, will need to return to Southwark Crown Court to find out what his punishment will be.
Under UK law, he could spend up to ten years in prison, and the judge may also consider prior convictions, which include the assault of a police officer and public order offences, alongside previous contempt of court findings and a stalking protection order.
Case Arguments and Considerations
Before the trial began, the judge presiding over the case, Mr Justice Cavanagh, told jurors to “put aside any views that you might have of Tommy Robinson, or his views and activities.”
As the case reached its climax, lawyers gave their closing arguments, including prosecutor Ben Holt, who said: “He just threatened people and acted like a bully.” However, the defence, led by barrister Alisdair Williamson KC, rejected his assessment and claimed: “The fear for him is real.”
The jury voted 10–2 on both charges, with the deliberations taking approximately 11 hours and 25 minutes. Following the verdict, Robinson was granted bail pending sentencing and must return to court on 16 December 2026.
The Daily Mail, which owns MailOnline, has yet to release a statement, though the reporters involved previously gave statements regarding their concerns for their safety.
Mr Dirnhuber said: “Even now every time I step out of my front door I am aware that there is a risk of a vigilante attack,” and that he was scared to “go to my own house.”
Mr Young opened up about Robinson’s behaviour, claiming his tone was “menacing”, and that he was “worried and concerned, I felt that my family was under threat and I was fearful of what might happen next.”
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