Tommy Robinson, the founder of the English Defence League, has been sentenced to nine months in prison for contempt of court at the Old Bailey. The sentence follows his live-streaming of defendants outside a child grooming trial on Facebook in May last year.
Scotland Yard confirmed that around 200 supporters gathered in Parliament Square, with some pushing police officers and a flare being set off. Despite the unrest, no arrests were made in connection with the demonstrations. However, City of London Police arrested three individuals in relation to events on Friday, when Robinson's trial was ongoing.
The Society of Editors condemned Robinson's claim that he was 'convicted of journalism', calling it a 'dangerous distortion of the truth'. The society emphasised that mainstream media adheres to legal standards and proper training, unlike self-proclaimed journalists.
Contempt of court laws, under the Contempt of Court Act 1981, aim to prevent substantial risk of serious prejudice to trials. Judges may impose reporting restrictions to balance fair trial rights with free speech and open justice.
Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, told followers via Telegram that colleagues would organise protests outside the prison where he is held. He expressed hope that supporters would rally for him while he serves his sentence.
