Tommy Robinson Arrested for St Pancras Assault: What Are the Penalties for GBH?

On August 4, 2025, Tommy Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, was arrested at Luton Airport on suspicion of grievous bodily harm (GBH) following an incident at St Pancras station in London on July 28, 2025. News outlets widely circulated footage appearing to show Robinson walking near a motionless man. The man, aged 64, was hospitalized with serious, but not life-threatening, injuries. Robinson was released on bail until September 2, 2025, pending further inquiries. But what exactly is GBH, and what penalties could someone face if convicted?

What Constitutes Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH)?

Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH) is a term used in English criminal law to describe the severest forms of battery. It is defined as causing serious physical injury to another person, either intentionally or recklessly. GBH is considered one of the most severe forms of assault under UK law.

The legal definition of GBH is found in Sections 18 and 20 of the Offences Against the Person Act 1861. The key difference between these sections lies in the element of intent.

Section 18 GBH: This is the more serious charge, often referred to as “wounding with intent” or “causing grievous bodily harm with intent.” To be convicted under Section 18, the prosecution must prove that the accused intended to cause serious harm.
Section 20 GBH: This is sometimes referred to as “unlawful wounding” or “inflicting grievous bodily harm.” Under Section 20, it only needs to be established that the accused acted unlawfully and maliciously, meaning they intended to cause some harm or were reckless as to whether harm would be caused.

What kind of injuries are considered GBH?

GBH involves severe injuries that may result in long-term damage. Examples of injuries that constitute GBH include:

Broken bones
Deep stab wounds
Severe psychological trauma
Permanent disfigurement
Loss of sensory function
Psychiatric injury

Wounding, which is also covered under Sections 18 and 20, requires that the victim’s skin is broken, either on their body or their inner skin.

Penalties for GBH in the UK

The penalties for GBH vary significantly depending on whether the offense is charged under Section 20 or Section 18, the severity of the injury, and other factors such as previous convictions and aggravating circumstances.

Section 20 GBH (Without Intent): The maximum sentence is five years in prison. However, sentences may vary based on the case specifics, such as the recklessness of the offender and the severity of the injuries.
Section 18 GBH (With Intent): This carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. The sentence depends on factors such as the severity of the injury, the use of weapons, and any aggravating factors, such as targeting vulnerable victims.

If the assault is racially or religiously aggravated, the maximum sentence can be increased. For example, the maximum sentence for racially or religiously aggravated Section 20 GBH is seven years.

Factors Influencing Sentencing

Several factors can influence the sentence imposed for GBH:

Intent: Whether the harm was inflicted with the specific intent to cause a serious injury. Clear evidence of premeditation or planning will result in a higher sentence.
Severity of Harm: The long-term consequences of the harm, including lasting physical or psychological harm to the victim.
Use of Weapons: The use of weapons or premeditated violence typically leads to longer sentences.
Vulnerability of the Victim: Offenses against vulnerable victims, such as children or older adults, may increase the sentence.
Aggravating Factors: Factors such as the use of weapons, targeting vulnerable victims, or previous convictions for violent offenses often lead to an increased sentence. The court will also consider if the offense occurred in the presence of others, potentially causing fear to other people at the scene.
Mitigating Factors: Mitigating factors can include remorse, a lack of prior criminal history, and the circumstances leading to the incident, such as self-defense or provocation.

Defenses Against a GBH Charge

Several defenses can be raised against a GBH charge, including:

Self-Defense: The law allows the use of reasonable force to defend yourself, another person, or your property. The force used must be reasonable and proportionate to the threat faced.
Accident: If the injury was caused accidentally and without intent to harm, this may be a valid defense, particularly for Section 20 charges.
Lack of Intent: For Section 18 charges, proving that you did not have the intent to cause serious harm can be crucial. This may involve demonstrating that your actions were reckless rather than intentional.
Mistaken Identity: If you were wrongly identified as committing GBH, this is a complete defense.
Consent: In some cases, if the victim consented to the actions that led to the injury, this may be a defense. However, there is legal debate about whether consent should be a defense to causing serious harm.
Duress: Being forced to injure someone else under threat of death or very serious injury to yourself.
Insanity: Not being aware that you were committing a crime, due to mental illness.

Making a Claim for Assault

If you’ve been a victim of assault, you can make a compensation claim. In the UK, an assault compensation claim is based on unlawful physical or psychological harm caused by another party.

A personal injury claim for assault can be made against the individual responsible, or through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA). The CICA is a government-backed scheme that provides financial support to victims of violent crime.

To make a claim through the CICA, the assault must have been reported to the police and occurred in Great Britain. A claim must usually be made within two years of the incident.

Seeking Legal Assistance

Facing a GBH charge is a serious matter that can have significant consequences, including imprisonment. If you are facing such charges, it is vital to seek legal representation from a criminal solicitor. A skilled solicitor can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system, protect your rights, and work towards the best possible outcome for your case.