Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, known as Tommy Robinson, is on trial at Southwark Crown Court in London, accused of harassing two Daily Mail journalists through intimidation tactics that caused them to fear for their safety. The 43-year-old activist denies two counts of harassment causing fear of violence against reporters Andrew Young and Jacob Dirnhuber.

The charges stem from Robinson's response to a Daily Mail front-page story published following unrest connected to the murders of three girls in Southport. The newspaper featured a photograph of Robinson on holiday in Cyprus, reclining on a sunbed with his phone, alongside the headline suggesting he was "stoking race riots from his sunbed." Prosecutors say Robinson could have lodged a complaint with the independent press regulator, Ipso, but instead chose to retaliate.

During the trial opening, barrister Ben Holt told the jury that Robinson used what he described as “bully-boy, intimidatory tactics” to threaten the journalists. He allegedly sent photographers to the reporters’ home addresses and shared images of their residences with millions of followers on the social media platform X, formerly Twitter. Robinson also allegedly sent direct messages to one reporter saying he would “be knocking at your door,” and phoned the other, declaring, “I’m coming to get you.” Additionally, a message purportedly from Robinson left for the Daily Mail’s Editor-in-Chief stated: “I’ve already located every f****** one of you.”

The prosecutors argued these actions led the two journalists to fear for their personal safety and that of their families, with some reportedly forced to leave their homes or increase security measures. The case highlights the impact of social media followers who, empowered by Robinson’s posts, allegedly contributed to a climate of intimidation.

Robinson and his legal team maintain that the Daily Mail’s coverage endangered his own family. He told police the newspaper had identified his hotel in Cyprus, leading to unwanted media attention and distress for his children. However, prosecutors pointed out that no photographs revealing his children’s identities were published by the newspaper.

The presiding judge, Mr Justice Cavanagh, instructed the jury to focus solely on the facts of the case and to disregard any political opinions about Robinson or views relating to the Daily Mail. He acknowledged that Robinson is a political activist and commentator, whose views may be controversial, but emphasized that such considerations are irrelevant to the charges.

The trial is ongoing.