Tommy Robinson, one of the UK’s most controversial far-right figures, is once again at the center of legal scrutiny after being formally charged with harassment causing fear of violence against two men. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) confirmed the charges this week, marking a fresh legal battle for Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon.
The alleged incidents occurred between August 5 and 7, 2024, and the case will now proceed to Westminster Magistrates’ Court, where Robinson is scheduled to appear on June 5, 2025. This comes just as he prepares for release from prison following a sentence for contempt of court—a conviction that stemmed from his ongoing efforts to challenge a High Court injunction.
The harassment charge carries serious legal implications and could result in a custodial sentence if Robinson is found guilty. For a public figure whose notoriety stems from pushing legal and social boundaries, this latest development may not come as a surprise—but it certainly adds to his growing list of court appearances and convictions.
History of Legal Troubles
Robinson’s criminal record is long and varied. It includes convictions for assault, mortgage fraud, public order offences, and contempt of court. In 2014, he was sentenced to 18 months in prison for using false documents to obtain a mortgage. In 2018, he was jailed for filming outside a criminal trial, which breached reporting restrictions and led to a contempt of court conviction.
His legal history has played a significant role in his public persona. While supporters claim he’s being silenced by the state for speaking uncomfortable truths, legal experts and human rights advocates argue that Robinson routinely disregards laws meant to protect individuals and the integrity of the legal system.
Details of the Harassment Charges
What the CPS Has Alleged
The harassment charges against Robinson relate to a series of alleged actions that took place over three days in early August 2024. While the CPS has not released specific details due to the ongoing legal process, they confirmed the charge was issued following a thorough investigation by the Metropolitan Police.
According to the CPS, the charge is “harassment causing fear of violence,” which under UK law involves a pattern of behavior intended to intimidate or distress the victim. For the charge to hold, prosecutors must prove that Robinson’s actions would lead any reasonable person to fear violence being used against them.
In this case, the charges pertain to two male victims. No additional details have been made public about their identities or the nature of the harassment, in order to protect the integrity of the trial.
Scheduled Court Appearance
Robinson is set to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on June 5, 2025. The court will assess whether the case should proceed to trial or if further preliminary hearings are required.
A CPS spokesperson emphasized the importance of a fair legal process: “We have authorised the Metropolitan Police to charge Stephen Yaxley-Lennon with harassment causing fear of violence against two men. The Crown Prosecution Service reminds all concerned that criminal proceedings against the defendant are active and that he has the right to a fair trial.”
This statement underscores the sensitive nature of the case and the high-profile attention it is likely to receive in the coming weeks.
Connection to Previous Legal Issues
2024 Contempt of Court Sentence
These new charges come shortly after Robinson served part of an 18-month prison sentence for contempt of court. In 2021, he was subject to a High Court injunction prohibiting him from making false claims about a Syrian refugee who previously won a libel case against him. Robinson was later found to have breached that injunction in 2024, prompting a judge to hand down the prison sentence.
The case drew significant media attention and further divided public opinion. For supporters, the sentence was proof of government overreach; for others, it reaffirmed the legal system’s efforts to curb defamation and harassment.
Segregation in Prison and Legal Appeals
While serving his sentence at HMP Woodhill in Buckinghamshire, Robinson was placed in segregation due to credible threats to his safety. Reports indicate he faced potential violence from other inmates, including a lifer who allegedly threatened his life. Despite relatively permissive segregation conditions—including visitation rights and phone access—Robinson appealed both the sentence and the segregation order. Both appeals were rejected.
Robinson’s lawyers claimed that the isolation negatively affected his mental and physical health. However, the Ministry of Justice maintained that the protective measures were necessary. In late April 2025, the High Court reduced his sentence by four months, citing his promise to comply with court orders moving forward.
Public and Political Reaction
Supporters vs Critics
As expected, the announcement of the new charges has reignited fierce debate. Supporters of Robinson argue that he is being persecuted for his political beliefs and that the state is attempting to silence dissenting voices. Many took to social media to defend him, using hashtags like #FreeTommy and #PoliticalPrisoner.
On the other hand, critics argue that Robinson’s continued defiance of legal and social boundaries justifies legal intervention. Advocacy groups like Hope Not Hate and Amnesty International have previously called for greater accountability, citing the harm his rhetoric causes to minority communities.
Legal Experts’ Commentary
Legal analysts note that the charge of “harassment causing fear of violence” is a serious one. If convicted, Robinson could face up to five years in prison, depending on the severity of the offense and any aggravating factors.
“This isn’t just about speech or political expression,” said a legal commentator on LBC Radio. “It’s about whether or not his conduct crossed the line into criminal harassment—particularly the kind that invokes genuine fear.”
Who Is Tommy Robinson?
Real Name and Background
Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, widely known by his alias Tommy Robinson, first gained public attention as the founder and former leader of the English Defence League (EDL), a far-right organization known for its anti-Islam rhetoric and street protests. Born in Luton, Robinson began using his pseudonym to gain traction in political circles while distancing his activism from his private life.
Over the years, Robinson has rebranded himself as an “independent journalist” and free speech advocate. However, his critics argue that his actions often incite hate and amplify dangerous stereotypes. Despite being banned from several social media platforms and barred from entering multiple countries, he continues to command a loyal following in certain political circles.
