A London jury convicted activist Tommy Robinson on two counts of harassment causing fear of violence Wednesday, leaving him facing a possible 10-year prison term, the Guardian reported.
Robinson, whose legal name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, denied the charges, which involved MailOnline journalists Andrew Young and Jacob Dirnhuber. The case followed MailOnline coverage of his Cyprus holiday. Prosecutors said Robinson’s conduct after the coverage exposed the journalists to threats, allegations presented at the trial’s opening. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said the alleged events took place between Aug. 5 and Aug. 7, 2024.
The Guardian said trial testimony described Jacob Dirnhuber and his partner leaving their residence, while Young and his family received close protection. A third journalist, George Odling, and his family also relocated, the paper reported. The Guardian also reported that jurors heard a call to the Daily Mail editor. Earlier EconoTimes coverage of the recording identified the editor as Ted Verity and described it as a voicemail attributed to Robinson.
Judge Cavanagh will consider sentencing options at the Dec. 16 hearing, including a prison term that could be suspended or served in full, the Guardian reported. The offense carries a maximum term of 10 years. Robinson is due back in court that day for sentencing.
