Controversial influencer Andrew Tate and his brother Tristan Tate have been charged with 21 criminal counts in the United Kingdom, including rape, human trafficking, actual bodily harm, and controlling prostitution, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) announced on May 28, 2025. The charges, authorized in January 2024 but only recently publicized, stem from allegations dating back to 2012–2015 and add to the brothers’ ongoing legal battles in Romania and the United States.
Details of the UK Charges
The CPS revealed that Andrew Tate, 38, a former kickboxer turned social media influencer, faces 10 charges related to three alleged victims, including rape, actual bodily harm, human trafficking, and controlling prostitution for gain. Tristan Tate, 36, faces 11 charges connected to one alleged victim, encompassing rape, actual bodily harm, and human trafficking. The charges follow a Bedfordshire Police investigation, with an extradition warrant issued in 2024 to bring the brothers from Romania to the UK. UK Security Minister Dan Jarvis confirmed on May 20, 2025, that the Tates will be extradited to Britain after their Romanian legal proceedings conclude, a process that could take months due to ongoing appeals.
Ongoing Legal Battles
The Tate brothers, dual U.S.-British citizens, are already embroiled in a Romanian investigation for human trafficking, rape, and forming an organized criminal group, charges they were indicted for in 2023. Although a Romanian appeals court ruled in December 2024 that the case could not proceed to trial due to procedural issues, it remains active with prosecutors. The Tates also face a U.S. investigation in Florida and a civil lawsuit in California filed by Andrew’s ex-girlfriend, Brianna Stern, who alleges physical and sexual abuse during their 10-month relationship, including a violent incident in March 2025 at a Beverly Hills hotel.
Additionally, four women in the UK have filed a civil lawsuit against Andrew Tate, set for trial in 2027, alleging sexual violence and coercive control. Court documents claim Tate pointed a gun at one woman, threatened to rape another, and choked others, allegations he denies, calling them “a pack of lies.”
Tate’s Defense and Public Reaction
The Tates have denied all allegations, with Andrew’s spokesperson, Mateea Petrescu, stating in April 2025 that he will “defend himself vigorously.” Their legal team argues the UK charges are based on outdated claims and that their relationships were consensual. Andrew, who boasts over 10 million followers on X, has framed himself as a target of global authorities, posting on May 18, 2025, about being “targeted by MI6 for being too influential” while “cruising around Dubai in a Bugatti.”
Public sentiment on X is divided. Supporters praise Tate’s resilience, citing his rise from “nothing” despite “Matrix” attacks, while critics highlight the severity of the charges and the need for accountability. Unverified X posts claiming Tate’s influence radicalizes young men toward misogyny have fueled further debate.
Background and Influence
Andrew Tate, self-proclaimed “king of toxic masculinity,” and Tristan, both former kickboxers, have amassed millions of followers through provocative content promoting male dominance, wealth, and controversial views on women. Previously banned from platforms like Instagram and TikTok, Andrew was reinstated on X by Elon Musk, amplifying his reach. Their ties to figures like Donald Trump Jr. and Alina Habba have raised questions about political influence, though Trump denied involvement in lifting their Romanian travel ban in February 2025.
What’s Next?
The Tates’ extradition to the UK awaits the resolution of their Romanian case, with no clear timeline. The UK civil trial in 2027 and ongoing U.S. investigations add to their legal woes. As the brothers continue to travel—recently spotted in Dubai—their high-profile status keeps the spotlight on their actions and the broader conversation about online influence and accountability.
