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Tommy Robinson Goes on Trial Over Refusal to Hand Over Phone PIN at Channel Tunnel

The two-day case tests police use of Schedule 7 border powers to compel access to electronic devices.

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British anti-immigration activist Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, known by the pseudonym Tommy Robinson, arrives at Westminster Magistrates' Court where he is on trial charged with an offence under the Terrorism Act, in London, Britain, October 13, 2025. REUTERS/Chris J. Ratcliffe
British anti-immigration activist Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, known by the pseudonym Tommy Robinson, arrives at Westminster Magistrates' Court where he is on trial charged with an offence under the Terrorism Act, in London, Britain, October 13, 2025. REUTERS/Chris J. Ratcliffe
British anti-immigration activist Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, known by the pseudonym Tommy Robinson, arrives at Westminster Magistrates' Court where he is on trial charged with an offence under the Terrorism Act, in London, Britain, October 13, 2025. REUTERS/Chris J. Ratcliffe

Overview

  • Proceedings opened at Westminster Magistrates' Court, where Stephen Yaxley-Lennon pleaded not guilty in a trial scheduled to conclude Tuesday.
  • Prosecutors said officers stopped him at the Channel Tunnel on 28 July 2024 as he drove a silver Bentley toward Spain, seized his iPhone and requested the PIN.
  • The court heard he refused to provide the code, citing protection of journalistic material and sources, after officers explained procedures for safeguarding such content.
  • Police witnesses cited his demeanour, a high-value car not registered to him, day-of ticket purchase, and cash totalling £13,370 plus €1,910 as factors that raised suspicion.
  • He stated on social media that Elon Musk is funding his defence, and the offence carries a maximum penalty of three months' imprisonment and/or a £2,500 fine.