Tommy Robinson weeps in court over Daily Mail article's impact on family
Tommy Robinson broke down in the witness box at Southwark Crown Court as he described being «shocked and scared» by a Daily Mail story about him, while denying two counts of harassment causing fear of violence against journalists.
Tommy Robinson broke down in the witness box at Southwark Crown Court on Thursday as he described the impact a Daily Mail article about him had on his family, telling the jury he was «shocked and scared» when the newspaper published the story.
The political activist, who denies two counts of harassment causing fear of violence, was called to give evidence by his defence barrister. He told the court he had been left «panicked and terrified» after the article appeared, and became emotional when asked how his family had been affected by the coverage.
The trial has previously heard allegations that Robinson used what prosecutors described as «bully-boy, intimidatory tactics» to frighten journalists through posts and messages on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter. He denies the charges.
Robinson's evidence on Thursday centred on his account of the period following the Daily Mail's publication, which he said left him fearful while he was on holiday. The court heard him describe his reaction to the story as one of shock and alarm, and his defence team used his testimony to argue that his own conduct had been shaped by distress rather than an intent to intimidate others.
The case has drawn attention because it pits a prominent political activist against journalists who say they were targeted online. The prosecution's case rests on the assertion that Robinson's posts and messages crossed the line from commentary into harassment causing fear of violence, a charge he contests.
Robinson has built a public profile through confrontational campaigning and social media activity, and the trial has become a focal point for debate over the boundaries between political speech and the intimidation of reporters. The court heard his account as the defence sought to present him as a man reacting to hostile coverage rather than as an aggressor.
The jury is expected to weigh his testimony against the evidence put forward by the prosecution as the trial continues. Robinson remains on bail and continues to deny both counts.
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