Andrew Tate, the controversial influencer detained by Romanian authorities in December, appeared in court for the first time as a defendant on Wednesday. He faces charges of rape, human trafficking, and forming an organized crime group.
Tate is charged alongside his brother, Tristan, who is also an internet personality, and two Romanian women.
The court session on Wednesday was focused on determining whether they should remain under house arrest or be subjected to a less restrictive form of judicial surveillance, which would permit them to leave their residence in Bucharest.
A ruling on their detention is expected to be announced on Friday.
Neither Andrew nor Tristan Tate responded outside the court. However, Andrew Tate did provide a brief statement to the media after the hearing.
Tate, who has a substantial online following and remains active on social media, expressed his gratitude to his supporters and stated, “We are not the first affluent and wealthy men who have been unfairly attacked.”
He also extended special thanks to Romania and its people, saying,
“The number of Romanian people who send me messages is absolutely fantastic. This is my home; I love this country. I’m going to stay here regardless, and I look forward to being found innocent.”
Andrew and Tristan Tate, along with the two Romanian women, were charged on Tuesday with rape, human trafficking, and organizing a criminal group, according to local prosecutors.
No trial date has been set yet, and trials in Romania can take several years.
The defendants have been in police custody for about six months, initially in jail and then under house arrest, as they awaited the formal charges.
A spokesperson for the Tate brothers stated on Tuesday,
“Tate’s legal team is ready to fully cooperate with the relevant authorities, providing all necessary evidence to clear the brothers of wrongdoing and correct any misunderstandings or false accusations.”
