Tommy Robinson Locked Up in Solitary Over Death Plots
Far-right figure Tommy Robinson, born Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, has been shoved into solitary confinement amid chilling warnings that fellow inmates are plotting to kill him. Prison intelligence reveals deadly threats against the former English Defence League leader, who’s currently serving 18 months for contempt of court after spreading libellous claims against a Syrian refugee.
Threats from Within Prison Walls
Robinson’s troubles began right after his sentence started. Clashes with Muslim prisoners forced a transfer from HMP Belmarsh to HMP Woodhill in Milton Keynes" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Milton Keynes last November. Despite the move, threats didn’t stop. The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) today told the High Court that two prisoners were plotting to attack Robinson “to gain kudos and notoriety.”
MoJ lawyer Tom Cross revealed:
“HMP Woodhill received several intelligence reports showing a non-speculative risk to the claimant, including that two other prisoners were plotting to assault the claimant… and that he had a ‘mark on his head’ and would be killed by a lifer if located on a wing.”
Solitary but With Some Perks
Robinson remains in segregation but isn’t cut off completely. He’s allowed a laptop for emails and gets three hours daily in the prison gym. However, his legal team claims extended isolation is wrecking his mental health.
Legal Fight Against Isolation
Robinson’s barrister Alisdair Williamson KC told the court:
“The solitary confinement is destroying my mind. I am terrified of the long-term consequences. I want to leave prison mentally well, not mentally broken.”
Williamson says Robinson believes his harsh treatment is politically motivated due to his activism. His lawyers are pushing for him to be returned to the general population or moved to another prison where segregation won’t be necessary.
Ministry of Justice: Segregation Is Temporary
The MoJ insists the solitary stint is temporary while another wing is refurbished. They explored transferring Robinson, but said no safer or better-managed prisoners facilities are available.
Public Outcry and Protests Rage On
Robinson’s conviction and sentencing in October 2024 — following ten breaches of a 2021 court order for repeating false claims about a Syrian refugee — sparked protests from supporters. Meanwhile, anti-racist groups have launched counter-demonstrations demanding justice.
Robinson is due for release on July 26. The High Court hearing continues today, with a ruling expected on whether he will remain locked up alone or be returned to the main prison population.
