Controversial influencer Andrew Tate has been accused and charged in Romania with rape, human trafficking and the formation of an organised crime group aimed at sexually exploiting women. His brother Tristan and two associates also face charges. All four individuals have denied the allegations brought against them.
The Tate brothers were initially arrested at their residence in Bucharest in December, but in March, they were granted house arrest following a decision by a Romanian judge.
The indictment filed with the Bucharest court outlines that the four defendants allegedly formed an organised criminal group in 2021, engaging in human trafficking not only in Romania, but also in other countries, including the US and the UK.
The indictment identifies seven alleged victims who were reportedly lured by the Tate brothers through false promises of love and marriage.
According to statements from Romanian prosecutors, the victims were subsequently taken to buildings in Ilfov County, where they faced intimidation, constant surveillance, control and forced indebtedness. The defendants are accused of coercing the women into participating in pornography, which was later shared on social media platforms.
The statement also mentions that one of the defendants is accused of raping a woman on two occasions in March 2022.
There are ongoing investigations into additional charges, as well, including money laundering and the trafficking of minors, which may result in a separate indictment.