Tommy Robinson Released Early After Sentence Cut by High Court
Controversial activist Tommy Robinson, real name Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, walked free from HMP Woodhill in Milton Keynes this morning. A High Court judge slashed his 18-month sentence for contempt of court, sparking fresh debate.
Contempt Sentence Slashed After Robinson Pledges To Obey Court
Robinson was jailed in October 2024 for breaching a civil injunction 10 times, spreading libellous claims against a Syrian refugee. Originally set for release in July 2025, he secured an early exit after a successful legal challenge.
Earlier this month, Mr Justice Johnson granted Robinson’s application to purge the contempt, cutting out the four-month “coercive” part of his sentence. Robinson had already served 14 months of the “punitive” term.
“He has given an assurance that he will comply with the injunction in the future… and that he is aware of the consequences if he breached the injunction again,” said the judge.
The Solicitor General’s Office backed the decision, confirming Robinson had taken “steps to adhere to the order” despite showing little remorse.
New Harassment Charges Hit Tommy Days After Release
Hot on the heels of his release, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) announced new harassment charges against Robinson. The 42-year-old now faces allegations of causing fear of violence against two men.
“We have authorised the Metropolitan Police to charge Stephen Yaxley-Lennon with harassment,” said a CPS spokesperson. “Criminal proceedings are active and he has the right to a fair trial.”
Robinson is due to appear at 1 Magistrates’ Court next Thursday.
Background: Injunction Breaches and Upcoming Trial
Robinson’s injunction stems from a 2021 libel case where he defamed a Syrian refugee. He breached the court order at least 10 times by:
- Publishing the film Silenced containing false claims
- Spreading the film on social media, especially X (formerly Twitter)
- Screening it during a Trafalgar Square protest in summer 2024
- Repeating allegations in interviews between February and June 2023
Separately, Robinson faces trial in October 2025 for refusing to provide his mobile phone PIN during a stop by Kent Police in July 2024.
Public Reaction Mixed As Robinson Emerges With New Look
Photos of Robinson sporting a new beard outside HMP Woodhill have gone viral, triggering both criticism and support online. Legal experts stress his early release followed proper legal procedure after judicial approval.
His legal team has yet to comment on the fresh harassment charges.
If found guilty of harassment or further breaches, Robinson risks more prison time.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
