Far-right activist Tommy Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, is currently on trial at Westminster Magistrates' Court after being stopped by police at the entrance to the Channel Tunnel on 28 July 2024.
The stop was conducted using counter-terrorism powers by Kent Police as Robinson was driving a silver Bentley Bentayga.
Police cited reasons for the stop including that Robinson was driving a car registered to someone else and had not pre-booked his Channel Tunnel ticket.
The officers became suspicious when Robinson avoided eye contact and stated he was driving all the way to Benidorm.
During the stop, Robinson refused to provide the PIN for his mobile phone, which is a legal requirement under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act for those detained under such powers.
Robinson has pleaded not guilty to the charge of refusing to provide his phone PIN.
Robinson's barrister, Alisdair Williamson KC, argued that the stop was unlawful and that the use of counter-terrorism powers was disproportionate.
He emphasized the extraordinary nature of the powers police hold at ports and airports, which compel individuals under threat of criminal penalty to answer questions.
Williamson highlighted Robinson's status as a public figure with well-known views and questioned the justification for the police's coercive actions, asking what information they expected to find that was not already public.
He also noted that after Robinson explained the Bentley belonged to a friend and that he regularly traveled to Benidorm, officers did not pursue further inquiries about the vehicle.
Prosecutor Jo Morris acknowledged that the stop may not have been "perfect" but maintained that it was not unlawful.
She stated there was no significant dispute over the facts and that Robinson had been warned about the consequences of refusing to provide his phone PIN and was offered legal advice before he declined.
The trial's judgment has been postponed until 4 November 2024 following closing arguments.
If convicted, Robinson faces up to three months in jail and/or a fine of £2,500.
Prior to the hearing, Robinson claimed on the social media platform X that Elon Musk, the billionaire owner of the platform who has previously supported him, had covered his legal expenses for the case.
Robinson described the proceedings as "state persecution." However, Musk has not publicly confirmed this claim.
The case continues to attract attention due to Robinson's controversial public profile and the legal implications surrounding the use of counter-terrorism powers at border checkpoints.