Influencer brothers Andrew and Tristan Tate face new criminal charges in the U.K., intensifying their ongoing legal troubles across multiple countries.
British prosecutors confirmed Wednesday that the duo, known for their controversial social media presence, are charged with serious offenses including rape, human trafficking and other crimes.
The Crown Prosecution Service revealed that although arrest warrants against the brothers were publicized last January, this is the first official confirmation of criminal charges in the U.K.
Andrew Tate, 38, faces 10 charges involving three women, including rape, actual bodily harm, human trafficking and controlling prostitution for gain.
Tristan Tate, 36, is charged with 11 counts connected to one woman, including rape, human trafficking and actual bodily harm.
Both brothers hold dual U.S. and British citizenship and relocated to Romania in 2016, according to CBS News.
Their notoriety stems partly from Andrew’s large social media following, where his unapologetic and often misogynistic rhetoric has attracted millions, particularly young men aspiring to the lifestyle he promotes.
Tristan, also a former professional kickboxer like his brother, shares a smaller but significant audience.
In late 2022, the brothers were arrested in Romania and formally indicted last year.
Romanian authorities accuse them of running a criminal enterprise that lured women into the country and exploited them sexually.
Andrew additionally faces separate rape charges there.
The brothers have consistently denied all allegations in Romanian courts.
Earlier this year, after a travel ban was lifted, Andrew and Tristan briefly returned to the U.S., landing at Fort Lauderdale Airport in late February.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) publicly distanced the state from the Tates, stating the state was “not a place where you’re welcome with that type of conduct in the air.”
Following their arrival, Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced he was launching a criminal inquiry into the brothers.
“Based on a thorough review of the evidence,” Uthmeier said, “I’ve directed the Office of Statewide Prosecution to execute search warrants and issue subpoenas in the now-active criminal investigation.”
Details about the probe remain undisclosed, but the announcement indicates the investigation is active and ongoing.
Shortly after their return to the U.S., the Tate brothers traveled back to Romania.
Upon arriving at their residence near Bucharest, Andrew Tate told reporters, “Innocent men don’t run from anything,” vowing to prove their innocence in court.
The brothers continue to maintain their innocence amid the multiple investigations spanning several countries.
British prosecutors stated that after concluding their Romanian court proceedings, the brothers are subject to an extradition order to the U.K.
The related warrant issued by Bedfordshire Police pertains to alleged offenses between 2012 and 2015, reflecting the long-standing nature of the accusations, CBS News reports.
The brothers’ current whereabouts are unknown, but they were recently photographed outside a police station in Voluntari, Romania, where they must report regularly as they face ongoing legal challenges.
Their legal saga remains complex, involving multiple jurisdictions and serious allegations.
Spokespersons for Andrew and Tristan Tate did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
As the cases continue to develop, the outcomes of the investigations in Romania, the U.K. and the U.S. will likely have significant legal consequences for the brothers.