Far-right figure Tommy Robinson was acquitted on Tuesday of violating British counterterrorism laws by refusing to provide his phone’s passcode during a border stop in July 2024. Robinson, also known as Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, is a prominent anti-immigration activist in Britain. The incident occurred at the Channel Tunnel train terminal in southeast England where he was stopped by police.
Prosecutors at a recent trial alleged that Robinson’s behavior, driving a high-value vehicle, a friend’s silver Bentley, and his last-minute trip to Benidorm, Spain, raised suspicion. During the stop, police confiscated Robinson’s phone and requested the passcode, which he declined, claiming it contained confidential information as a journalist.
In delivering the verdict, Judge Sam Goozee criticized the police for potentially detaining Robinson based on his political views, deeming the stop unlawful. Following the ruling, Robinson expressed gratitude to Elon Musk for supporting his legal defense. Musk, an American entrepreneur, has shown public support for Robinson and even participated in a rally organized by him in London.
Robinson, who has faced criticism for his far-right views and criminal record, asserted that he was unfairly targeted by authorities for his journalistic work. He welcomed the court’s decision, stating that it highlighted the government’s efforts to access his phone under the guise of counterterrorism measures.
