Andrew Tate's home raided amid ongoing rape probe
Romanian officials conducted a search on Wednesday at the home of renowned influencer Andrew Tate, who is currently facing trial for human trafficking and rape charges. This search forms part of a new investigation into Tate's activities. Known globally for his misogynistic and occasionally violent rhetoric, Tate, along with his brother Tristan, is accused of establishing an organized criminal network in Romania and Britain in early 2021. Both brothers have refuted these allegations.
Prosecutors allege Tate brothers' involvement in criminal network
Prosecutors claim that the 37-year-old Tate, his 36-year-old brother Tristan, and two unidentified women established a criminal organization and sexually exploited multiple victims. The trial date for these charges has not been set yet. "On August 21, prosecutors conducted a raid this morning at the residence of the Tate brothers as part of a search related to a new investigation," stated officials in their announcement.
Tate brothers face multiple charges, awaiting trial
The Office for Organized Crime (DIICOT) executed four search warrants in connection with "the crimes of forming an organized criminal group, trafficking in minors," "sexual relations with a minor," and "money laundering." It remains unclear whether these new charges target the Tate brothers. The brothers were previously detained in Bucharest in 2022 and spent three months under judicial supervision while awaiting trial.
Additional allegations surfaced in Britain
In addition to the charges in Romania, the Tate brothers also face rape and assault allegations in separate cases in Britain. They have been accused of tax evasion as well. Tate first gained notoriety after appearing on the Big Brother reality television show in Britain in 2016 but was removed following a video that surfaced showing him attacking a woman.
Tate's rise to fame through controversial social media presence
After his removal from Big Brother, Tate turned to social media platforms to propagate his divisive views. Offering advice on success, coupled with misogynistic and occasionally violent maxims, his videos have made him one of the world's most recognized influencers. His controversial online presence has drawn both attention and criticism globally.
Tate's legal team was present during recent raids
In response to the recent raids, Tate's spokesperson, Mateea Petrescu, stated that "although the charges in the search warrant are not yet fully clarified, they include suspicions of human trafficking and money laundering." Petrescu added that Tate's legal team was present during the raid. However, she did not address allegations involving minors.
