Tommy Robinson on trial for alleged harassment of MailOnline journalists
Stephen Yaxley‑Lennon, known as Tommy Robinson, is being tried at Southwark Crown Court on two counts of harassment causing fear of violence against MailOnline reporters Andrew Young and Jacob Dirnhuber. Prosecutors say the alleged conduct involved X posts, direct messages and a phone call made in early August 2024, including the posting of the journalists' home addresses and messages warning they would be visited. The journalists have described feeling unsafe and have reported that supporters of Robinson amplified the online threats. Robinson entered not‑guilty pleas to both counts in July 2025, and the five‑day trial is expected to continue this week.
How this was covered
- Left-leaning outlets covered this 5h later
Why it matters
The case tests how online threats to journalists are prosecuted under UK harassment laws and raises concerns about press freedom.
How the sides frame it
MODERATE AGREEMENTLeft-leaning coverage stresses the journalists' fear and the notion of a "vigilante attack," while centrist coverage presents the trial as a straightforward legal proceeding with background details, and right-leaning coverage highlights the alleged threatening language and victims' fear, often quoting the activist's warnings.
LEFT
Emphasizes the intimidation and fear experienced by the journalists, portraying Robinson's actions as a threatening "vigilante attack."
CENTER
Presents the case as a factual legal process, noting the charges, Robinson's far-right background, and procedural details such as the judge’s instructions to jurors.
RIGHT
Highlights the alleged harassment and the activists’ threatening statements, underscoring the journalists' fear and the activist’s warnings.
The left emphasises
- journalist feared a "vigilante attack"
- messages threatened journalists
- Robinson warned "I’m coming to get you"
The right emphasises
- voicemail warning "if it’s legitimate journalism then expect me to come knocking"
- journalists scared to leave their homes
- supporters cheered outside the court
How this story developed
- Oct 19 Far-right activist Tommy Robinson begins trial for alleged journalist harassment
- Oct 21 The trial began on Monday at Southwark Crown Court.
