The inquiry follows rape and human-trafficking accusations, with the brothers also facing civil lawsuits in the US.
Florida Launches Criminal Inquiry into Influencers Andrew and Tristan Tate
Florida Launches Criminal Inquiry into Influencers Andrew and Tristan Tate
Florida authorities initiate a criminal investigation into the Tate brothers, who traveled from Romania amid serious allegations.
Florida's attorney general, James Uthmeier, confirmed that a criminal investigation has commenced against British-American influencers Andrew and Tristan Tate. The brothers recently arrived in Florida from Romania, where they have been embroiled in sexual assault and human trafficking charges. Uthmeier reported that the investigation is "now active," involving search warrants and subpoenas to gather evidence.
The Tates, known for their significant online following and controversial personalities, have consistently denied all accusations. They are also involved in a civil lawsuit in the US, filed by a woman who claims they coerced her into sex work and subsequently defamed her after she reported her experience to authorities in Romania.
Andrew Tate, 38, a former kickboxer and infamous for his misogynistic commentary, and his brother Tristan, 36, stand accused of serious crimes in their home country. They were arrested in Romania in December 2022, facing numerous charges including rape and human trafficking, which they both vehemently deny. Despite being released from house arrest after several months, new allegations have surfaced, further complicating their legal battles.
Uthmeier indicated that this investigation is seeking to connect local and federal efforts on the matter: "Based on a thorough review of the evidence, I've directed the Office of Statewide Prosecution to execute search warrants and issue subpoenas in the now-active investigation into the Tate brothers."
The Tates' legal representative, Joseph McBride, criticized Uthmeier's public comments about the plaintiffs as "biased," suggesting that the attorney general compromised ethical standards by taking sides in the ongoing legal disputes. The brothers are currently scheduled to return to Romania in March under legal requirements, although their compliance remains uncertain.
With their complicated legal woes extending beyond borders, including pending extradition requests from the UK for unrelated charges, the future of Andrew and Tristan Tate remains precarious as they navigate a convoluted web of accusations and legal strategies across multiple jurisdictions.
