Court told Tommy Robinson used bullyboy, intimidatory tactics to threaten journalists in harassment case
Harassment charges go to trial
The far-right activist known as Tommy Robinson faces two counts of harassment causing fear of violence against two MailOnline reporters. Prosecutors say the alleged conduct included posts and direct messages on X. The charges also concern a phone call on 5 August 2024. Robinson is accused of telling reporter Young he would visit his home and saying, “I’m coming to get you.”
Prosecution describes alleged tactics
Opening the prosecution case on Monday, barrister Ben Holt told jurors that Robinson could have complained to a press regulator about the Mail’s reporting. The coverage concerned what was seen as Robinson’s role as an influencer encouraging violence after the Southport murders. Holt said the prosecution case was that Robinson threatened the journalists, sent photographers to their home addresses and posted redacted pictures of them on X. He described the alleged conduct as “bullyboy, intimidatory tactics.”
Jury urged to set views aside
The barrister told jurors that Robinson’s political views were not relevant to the case. He also asked them to put aside any opinions they held about the Daily Mail or MailOnline.
Key points
- Robinson faces two harassment counts involving two MailOnline reporters.
- The allegations include X posts, direct messages and a phone call on 5 August 2024.
- Prosecutor Ben Holt said Robinson shared redacted pictures of the reporters on X.
- Jurors were told to set aside views about Robinson’s politics and the Daily Mail.