Governor DeSantis Banishes Influencer Brothers from Florida
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced on Thursday that Andrew and Tristan Tate, the social media influencer siblings facing charges in Romania related to human trafficking and sexual activity with a minor, were unwelcome in the state. During a press conference, DeSantis stated that the state did not associate with the Tates but had limited authority to prevent their visit. The brothers arrived in Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport after a travel ban was lifted, as they hold dual citizenship in the United States and the U.K.
DeSantis emphasized that Florida did not approve of the conduct attributed to the Tate brothers and stated that the state’s Attorney General, James Uthmeier, was exploring available options while asserting that federal intervention was required to bar their entry into the U.S. Uthmeier declared a preliminary investigation would be conducted in collaboration with state law enforcement agencies to address any potential crimes within Florida’s jurisdiction related to human trafficking and violence against women.
Andrew Tate, upon landing in Florida, addressed the media, asserting their innocence until proven guilty and highlighting their lack of criminal records. Their spokesperson, Mateea Petrescu, confirmed their arrival in Fort Lauderdale and their plans to return to Romania for legal proceedings before coming back to the U.S.
Joseph McBride, the Tate brothers’ attorney, refuted Governor DeSantis’ comments, emphasizing their American citizenship and ongoing defamation lawsuit in Palm Beach Court. He expressed confidence in their legal actions and stated that they intended to return to Romania for legal matters before residing in the U.S. again.
Upon learning about the Tate brothers’ arrival in the U.S., President Donald Trump and U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed interest in investigating the matter, highlighting the severity of human trafficking as a security concern.
Commenting on the brothers’ entry into the United States, an official stated, “I currently do not have any information regarding the Tate brothers.” The official further mentioned that the White House would be closely monitoring the situation. The brothers departed Romania amidst a criminal investigation into allegations of orchestrating an organized criminal group, involvement in human trafficking, trafficking of minors, engaging in sexual activities with a minor, and money laundering. Despite these accusations, the brothers have consistently maintained their innocence.
The Directorate for Investigating Organized Crime and Terrorism in Romania, also known as DIICOT, disclosed in a statement on Thursday that prosecutors had granted a request to alter the restriction on the defendants leaving the country. However, the statement emphasized that judicial control measures were still in effect. The Associated Press reported that the agency did not provide further details on the individual or entity that had submitted the request for modification.
