NEWS STORY : Tommy Robinson Loses Appeal Against 18-Month Prison Sentence for Contempt of Court
STORY
Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, better known as Tommy Robinson, has lost his appeal against an 18-month prison sentence for contempt of court. The Court of Appeal in London upheld the sentence, which was imposed in October 2024 after Yaxley-Lennon admitted to breaching a High Court injunction by repeating false allegations against Syrian refugee Jamal Hijazi, who had previously won a libel case against him. The contempt charges stemmed from Yaxley-Lennon’s comments in online interviews and a documentary titled “Silenced,” which was widely distributed, including a showing at Trafalgar Square. The Court of Appeal judges stated that the original sentencing judge applied the law appropriately and imposed a fitting punishment.
Yaxley-Lennon’s legal team argued that his detention in segregation at Woodhill Prison was adversely affecting his mental health. However, the court dismissed these claims, noting that the segregation was necessary for his own protection and did not constitute solitary confinement, as he had opportunities to spend time out of his cell, work, and communicate with family and friends. The 42-year-old self-styled journalist has been a controversial figure in the UK, known for his far-right activism and previous convictions. Despite his claims of support from U.S. billionaire Elon Musk for his legal fees, Musk has not confirmed this. Yaxley-Lennon’s imprisonment has been a focal point for his supporters, who have organised rallies and spread disinformation in his defence.
