Andrew Tate and his brother Tristan confined to Romania amid human trafficking and rape charges
A Bucharest court ruled on Tuesday that controversial influencer Andrew Tate and his brother Tristan must remain in Romania while awaiting trial on charges of human trafficking and rape. The Bucharest Court of Appeal overturned a previous decision from July 5 that had eased travel restrictions, allowing the brothers to travel within the European Union.
Court ruling and judicial supervision
The final ruling came after prosecutors appealed the initial decision. The court “dismisses as unfounded the request of the defendants to replace the obligation not to leave the territory of Romania with an obligation not to leave the territorial limit of the European Union”, according to the decision delivered on Tuesday.
While awaiting trial, the Tate brothers are under judicial supervision in Romania, which is reviewed every 60 days. Their lawyer, Eugen Vidineac, stated in a press release that Andrew and Tristan “will fully comply” with the court ruling.
Charges and allegations
US-born Briton Andrew Tate and his brother Tristan, who maintain their innocence, are accused of forming an organized criminal network in early 2021 in Romania and Britain. Prosecutors allege that 37-year-old Tate, his brother, and two women established a criminal organization and sexually exploited several victims. A trial date has not yet been set.
In addition to the charges in Romania, the Tates face rape and assault allegations in separate cases in Britain. They have also been accused of tax evasion in the UK last week.
Background of Andrew Tate
Andrew Tate moved to Romania years ago after initially starting a webcam business in the UK. In 2016, Tate appeared on the “Big Brother” reality television show in Britain but was removed after a video emerged showing him attacking a woman. Following his removal from the show, Tate turned to social media platforms to promote his divisive views.
Social media influence and public appearances
Tate has gained notoriety through his social media presence, offering tips on how to be successful along with misogynistic and sometimes violent maxims. His videos have made him one of the world’s best-known influencers.
Despite his legal troubles, Andrew Tate made a brief appearance last weekend on stage at a seaside festival in Romania as a guest of US rapper French Montana.