Controversial activist Tommy Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, was released early from HMP Woodhill in Milton Keynes this morning after a High Court judge reduced his 18-month sentence for contempt of court.

Robinson had originally been jailed in October 2024 for 10 breaches of a civil injunction barring him from repeating libellous allegations against a Syrian refugee he had previously defamed. He had been due for release on 26 July 2025 but was freed early following a successful legal application.

Contempt Sentence Cut After Pledge to Comply With Court Order

Earlier this month, Mr Justice Johnson of the High Court granted Robinson’s application to purge his contempt, removing the four-month “coercive” element of the sentence. Robinson had already served the 14-month “punitive” portion.

The judge acknowledged Robinson’s lack of remorse, but noted his apparent shift in attitude, stating:

“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.”

The ruling was supported by the Solicitor General’s Office, whose lawyers agreed Robinson had taken “steps to adhere to the order”.

New Harassment Charges Announced Following Release

Just days before his release, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) confirmed that Robinson, 42, now faces fresh charges of harassment causing fear of violence against two men.

A CPS spokesperson said:

“We have authorised the Metropolitan Police to charge Stephen Yaxley-Lennon with harassment… Criminal proceedings are active and he has the right to a fair trial.”

Robinson is expected to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Thursday next week in relation to the case.

Background: The Injunction and Breaches

Robinson had been prohibited from repeating claims made in the 2021 libel case, where he was found liable for defaming a Syrian teenager. He breached the injunction 10 times, including:

• Publishing the film Silenced, which contained the false claims.
• Sharing the film on his social media account on X (formerly Twitter).
• Screening the film during a Trafalgar Square demonstration in summer 2024.
• Giving interviews between February and June 2023 repeating the allegations.

Upcoming Trial Over Refusal to Provide Mobile PIN

Robinson also faces a separate trial in October 2025 for allegedly failing to provide the PIN to his mobile phone during a stop by Kent Police in Folkestone in July 2024.

Public Reaction and Next Steps

Images of Robinson, now sporting a new beard, outside HMP Woodhill have begun circulating on social media, drawing sharp criticism and support alike.

While he remains a polarising figure, legal experts note that the early release was procedural and within the law following a judge’s approval.

Robinson’s legal team has not yet commented on the new charges.

If found guilty of harassment or further breaches, Robinson could face additional custodial sentences.

Stay with us for further updates as this developing story unfolds.