Controversial influencer, Andrew Tate, known for his divisive online presence, has been charged in Romania with heinous crimes including rape, human trafficking, and forming an organized crime group to exploit women sexually.
The charges extend to his brother Tristan and two other associates, all of whom have vehemently denied any wrongdoing.
The Tate brothers were initially apprehended at their Bucharest residence in December, and in March, they were placed under house arrest following a ruling by a Romanian judge.
The indictment presented to the Bucharest court outlines that the four defendants allegedly formed an organized criminal group in 2021, engaging in human trafficking activities not only within Romania but also in other countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom.
The indictment specifies seven alleged victims who were reportedly lured by the Tate brothers through false promises of love and marriage.
The victims were allegedly taken to locations in Ilfov county, Romania, where they were subjected to intimidation, constant surveillance, control, and forced indebtedness, according to statements from Romanian prosecutors.
It is further alleged that the defendants coerced the women into participating in pornography, which was subsequently disseminated on social media platforms.
Disturbingly, one of the defendants is accused of raping a woman on two separate occasions in March 2022, as indicated in the statement.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the accused individuals have had their assets seized, including properties, vehicles, and over $300 million (£235 million) worth of cryptocurrency.
Although the trial is not expected to commence immediately and could extend over several years, a Romanian judge now has a 60-day period to review the case files before proceeding with the trial.
In response to the charges, the media team representing the Tate brothers issued a statement saying, “While this news is undoubtedly predictable, we embrace the opportunity it presents to demonstrate their innocence and vindicate their reputation.”
The statement further asserts that the indictment allows them to present a comprehensive body of evidence collected over time, which they believe will substantiate their claims of innocence.
Additional charges, including money laundering and trafficking of minors, are still under investigation and may lead to separate indictments.
Andrew Tate gained notoriety in 2016 when he was removed from the British TV show Big Brother after a video emerged appearing to show him assaulting a woman.
Despite facing bans on various social media platforms, he managed to amass a following, particularly among young men, by projecting an image of a hyper-masculine, ultra-luxurious lifestyle.
