Florida’s attorney general has launched a criminal investigation into controversial influencers Andrew and Tristan Tate after they entered the state despite facing serious criminal charges in Romania.
James Uthmeier, appointed by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, announced on Tuesday that authorities had begun an “active criminal investigation” and were prepared to use the “full force of law” against the brothers.
“These guys have themselves publicly admitted to participating in what very much appears to be soliciting, trafficking, preying upon women around the world,” Uthmeier said, adding that “many of these victims are coming forward, some of them minors.”
The attorney general confirmed that his office had “secured and executed subpoenas and warrants” as part of the investigation.
Andrew Tate, known for his self-described “misogynist” views, and his brother Tristan arrived in Fort Lauderdale last week on a private jet from Bucharest. Romanian prosecutors had temporarily suspended their travel ban, while a court lifted a precautionary seizure on some of their assets.
The brothers, who hold dual US-UK citizenship, were arrested in Romania in 2022 and still face trial there on charges of rape, sex with a minor, people trafficking and money laundering.
Governor DeSantis criticised the Tates last week, though the brothers are vocal supporters of US President Donald Trump. Several figures in Trump’s circle have spoken against their treatment in Europe, including Donald Trump Jr, who described their detention as “absolute insanity”.
Trump aide Elon Musk responded supportively to Andrew Tate’s suggestion about running for UK prime minister. Paul Ingrassia, a lawyer representing the Tates, serves as White House liaison official for the US Department of Justice.
Upon arriving in Florida, Andrew Tate claimed: “We’ve no criminal record anywhere on the planet ever.”
Florida authorities have emphasised their commitment to combating human trafficking, with Uthmeier stating: “In Florida, this type of behaviour is viewed as atrocious. We’re not going to accept it.”
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