Andrew and Tristan Tate Arrive in South Florida After Travel Ban Lifted
FORT LAUDERDALE, FL — Influencer brothers Andrew and Tristan Tate arrived in South Florida on Thursday after Romanian authorities lifted travel restrictions imposed as part of their ongoing human trafficking case. The brothers, who have been at the center of legal battles in Romania and the United Kingdom, landed at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport around midday, according to their spokesperson, Mateea Petrescu.
The Tates, dual U.S.-British citizens known for their controversial online presence, were arrested in Romania in late 2022 and formally indicted last year on charges of human trafficking and sexual exploitation. Andrew Tate was also charged with rape. Despite the case remaining open, a Romanian court ruled in December that procedural irregularities prevented the case from proceeding to trial, leading to the lifting of some restrictions on their movement.
Andrew Tate Speaks Out
Speaking to reporters upon arrival, Andrew Tate defended himself and his brother, emphasizing that they have never been convicted of a crime.
“We live in a democratic society where it’s innocent until proven guilty,” Tate said. “There’s a lot of media spin, black ops smears, and lies about us. Our case was dismissed on December 19 in Romania, and our prosecutor recently decided that since we have no active indictment in court, we are free to return.”
Tate also accused media organizations and political entities of attempting to damage his reputation, alleging a conspiracy against him.
Florida Officials Respond
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis was asked about the brothers’ arrival during a press conference on Thursday.
“We have no involvement in that. I read about it through the media,” DeSantis said. “The federal government has jurisdiction over whether they are allowed entry into the United States. Our Attorney General, James Uthmeier, is looking into what state jurisdiction we may have to address this.”
The governor made it clear that Florida does not welcome individuals accused of such crimes, but noted that his administration was not informed in advance of the Tates’ arrival.
Romanian Authorities Continue Investigation
Although the Romanian court ruled that the case could not go to trial due to legal missteps by prosecutors, the investigation into the Tates has not been closed. Romania’s anti-organized crime agency, DIICOT, confirmed that prosecutors approved a request to modify the brothers’ travel restrictions but did not specify who made the request.
“The defendants have been warned that deliberately violating these obligations may result in a stricter deprivation of liberty,” DIICOT said in a statement.
In addition to the primary case, Romanian authorities are pursuing a second investigation into allegations of human trafficking, trafficking of minors, sexual exploitation, and money laundering. The Tates deny all accusations.
U.K. Legal Troubles Continue
Beyond Romania, Andrew Tate faces legal battles in the United Kingdom. Four British women who accused him of sexual violence and abuse are suing him after the Crown Prosecution Service declined to pursue criminal charges. The women expressed outrage at the decision to lift the Tates’ travel ban, stating that they felt “re-traumatized” by the news.
Meanwhile, a U.K. court recently ruled that authorities can seize over £2.6 million (approximately $3.3 million) from the Tates to cover unpaid taxes. Andrew Tate has dismissed the ruling as “outright theft” and part of a broader campaign against him.
What’s Next?
The Tate brothers remain subject to legal obligations in Romania and must appear before authorities when summoned. While they are now free to travel, their legal battles continue across multiple jurisdictions.
As their high-profile case unfolds, questions remain about the extent of their legal liabilities and whether authorities in Romania, the U.K., or the U.S. will take further action.
