Romanian prosecutors charge Andrew and Tristan Tate with new sex crimes and trafficking offenses.
The Directorate for Investigating Crime and Terrorism (DIICOT) alleges the brothers earned more than $1.2 million by forcing a 15‑year‑old girl to perform sex acts over video calls. Andrew Tate, 39, faces charges of trafficking minors, money laundering and sex with a minor. Tristan Tate, 38, is accused of complicity in trafficking and money laundering.
Both brothers, who hold dual US and British citizenship, have been under investigation in Romania since December 2022. They have lived in the country since 2017 and built a large following through social media, often targeting young men with messages that combine misogyny and luxury images.
Investigators claim the victim was recruited by Tristan while still a minor and subsequently moved to Romania by Andrew, who allegedly used surveillance, physical intimidation and exploitation to coerce her into repeated sexual acts for profit. The pair also faced allegations of moving the victim between two residences in Romania to continue the exploitation.
Prosecutors have requested the confiscation of four luxury cars owned by the brothers, worth a combined £710,000, as part of their money‑laundering claims. The role of these vehicles in the alleged financial scheme is not yet clear pending judicial review.
The Tates remain in a Miami jail while fighting extradition to the United Kingdom under separate charges. They deny all accusations, asserting that their online personas are not reflective of real life. Their lawyer, Eugen Constantin Vidineac, stated that the decision by DIICOT “does not determine guilt” and will be subject to judicial scrutiny. He emphasized the defendants’ rights to presumption of innocence and adequate defense.
