Tommy Robinson intimidated Daily Mail reporters, trial hears claims about posts and threats
Prosecutor outlines the case
Opening the trial, prosecutor Ben Holt said the case concerned Yaxley-Lennon’s response to Daily Mail and MailOnline articles. Holt linked that response to Robinson’s view that the coverage was an unnecessary intrusion into his holiday after the Southport attacks.
Holt said Robinson’s social media posts after the 29 July 2024 murders of three girls alerted the newspapers to his presence in Cyprus. The court heard that he then posted repeatedly on X about the articles.
Claims about journalists’ homes
The prosecutor accused Robinson of using intimidating tactics against two journalists, including circulating images of their homes to millions of followers. Holt told jurors the journalists were scared, and said some were forced to leave home.
Holt cited statements attributed to Robinson, including that he would go to journalists’ doors and homes. One post alleged that the Daily Mail had revealed his family’s exact location.
Judge and Robinson’s response
Before the trial began, Robinson thanked X owner Elon Musk for funding his case. He also said his legal costs so far had reached £400,000.
Key points
- The trial concerns Robinson’s response to Daily Mail and MailOnline articles about his holiday in Cyprus.
- Prosecutor Ben Holt says two journalists were intimidated and faced security concerns or had to leave home.
- The judge told jurors the case is not an assessment of Robinson’s political views.
- Robinson said Elon Musk helped fund his case and that his costs had reached £400,000.