Andrew and Tristan Tate, the influencer brothers facing serious charges in Romania, have arrived in Florida after a travel ban was lifted.
The brothers, who hold dual citizenship in the United States and the United Kingdom, are under investigation in Romania for allegations including human trafficking, trafficking of minors, sexual intercourse with a minor, and money laundering. They have denied all accusations.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis made it clear that the Tate brothers are not welcome in the state, citing their alleged conduct.
At a press conference, DeSantis stated that while Florida has no direct involvement in their case, the state has limited power to prevent their entry.
He emphasized that Florida has “zero tolerance for human trafficking and violence against women” and directed the state’s attorney general, James Uthmeier, to conduct a preliminary inquiry into the matter.
The brothers left Romania legally after prosecutors approved a request to modify their travel restrictions.
They arrived at Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport on a private flight. Romanian authorities confirmed that judicial control measures remain in place, but did not provide further details about the request that allowed their departure.
Andrew Tate addressed the media briefly upon arrival, asserting their innocence. “We live in a democratic society where it’s innocent until proven guilty,” he said. “My brother and I are largely misunderstood.
We’ve yet to be convicted of any crime in our lives, and we have no criminal record anywhere on the planet.” He added that they were permitted to leave Romania because there is “no active indictment” preventing their return to the U.S.
Their attorney, Joseph McBride, criticized DeSantis for his comments, calling them a “disgrace.” McBride emphasized that the brothers are plaintiffs in an ongoing defamation lawsuit in Florida and are victims of false accusations.
He stated that the brothers plan to return to Romania at the end of March to meet with prosecutors before coming back to the United States. McBride also warned that those who continue to defame the Tates will be “brought to justice.”
Meanwhile, reactions to the brothers’ arrival have been mixed. A British attorney representing alleged victims of the Tates expressed dismay, stating that his clients feel “abandoned” and fear the brothers will never face criminal prosecution. U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, visiting the White House, called human trafficking a security risk and pledged to look into the issue.
President Donald Trump, when asked about the situation, said he had no knowledge of it but would “check it out.”
The case has drawn significant attention, with Florida officials reiterating their stance against human trafficking and violence. Uthmeier vowed to hold the Tates accountable if any of the alleged crimes fall under Florida’s jurisdiction.
As the legal proceedings continue, the Tate brothers remain confident in their ability to clear their names and resume their lives in the United States.
