TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA — Florida’s attorney general, James Uthmeier, announced on Tuesday that his office has opened a criminal investigation into Andrew and Tristan Tate, brothers who are charged with human trafficking in Romania. This comes just days after the brothers returned to the United States.
In a statement on social media, Uthmeier stated that he has directed his office to work closely with law enforcement to conduct a thorough preliminary inquiry into the Tate brothers. He also mentioned that based on a thorough review of the evidence, he has directed the Office of Statewide Prosecution to execute search warrants and issue subpoenas in the now-active criminal investigation.
The Tate brothers landed in Fort Lauderdale, Florida on Thursday, and Governor Ron DeSantis made it clear that they were not welcome in the state. He also stated that he would have the attorney general examine whether the state has any jurisdiction over their alleged crimes.
During an appearance on the PPD Podcast on Monday, Andrew Tate, a former professional kickboxer and self-proclaimed misogynist, accused the governor of caving to media pressure. He also asserted that he has a U.S. passport and the right to visit his home country. He maintained his innocence, stating that he has never been tried or convicted of a crime.
The Tates, who hold dual U.S.-British citizenship, were arrested in late 2022 and formally indicted last year in Romania on charges of participating in a criminal ring that lured women to the country and sexually exploited them. Andrew Tate was also charged with rape. However, the brothers vehemently deny these allegations.
Andrew Tate, 38, is a popular social media figure with millions of followers, many of them young men and schoolchildren. He is known for projecting a luxurious lifestyle online and has gained a significant following for his controversial views. Along with his 36-year-old brother, Tristan, he is a vocal supporter of former President Donald Trump.
In the past, Andrew Tate has faced backlash and has been banned from platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook for his hate speech and misogynistic comments. He has been known to make statements blaming women for getting sexually assaulted.
The Tates left Romania after Foreign Minister Emil Hurezeanu stated this month that a Trump administration official had expressed interest in their case at the recent Munich Security Conference.
The attorney general’s decision to open a criminal investigation into the Tate brothers has been met with support from many who believe that justice must be served. Human trafficking is a heinous crime that affects millions of people worldwide, and it is crucial that those responsible are held accountable.
The state of Florida has taken a strong stance against human trafficking, and this investigation is a testament to their commitment to fighting this issue. The attorney general’s office, along with law enforcement, will work tirelessly to gather evidence and bring the perpetrators to justice.
It is also heartening to see that the governor and the attorney general are taking a proactive approach in examining whether the state has jurisdiction over the Tate brothers’ alleged crimes. This shows their dedication to protecting the citizens of Florida and ensuring that the state’s laws are upheld.
In conclusion, the criminal investigation into the Tate brothers is a significant step towards seeking justice for the victims of human trafficking. The state of Florida is sending a clear message that this crime will not be tolerated, and those who engage in it will face the full force of the law. Let us hope that this investigation leads to the truth and brings closure to all those affected by this heinous crime.
