Influencer brothers Andrew and Tristan Tate, who are charged with human trafficking in Romania, arrived Thursday in the US after authorities lifted travel restrictions imposed as part of the case. The brothers landed in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, around midday, per the AP. Upon landing, Andrew Tate, 38, did not answer questions about returning to Romania eventually, reports the BBC. Instead, he told reporters not to believe the "media spin" about him and his brother, who is two years younger.
The Tates—who are dual US-British citizens and have millions of online followers—were arrested in late 2022 and formally indicted last year on charges they participated in a criminal ring that lured women to Romania, where they were sexually exploited. Andrew Tate was also charged with rape. They deny the allegations. Romania's anti-organized crime agency, DIICOT, said Thursday that prosecutors approved a request to change the travel restrictions on the Tates, but didn't say who made the request. The brothers are still required to appear before judicial authorities when summoned.
Their departure from Romania comes weeks after a Trump administration official reportedly pushed for more freedom for the brothers. On Thursday, President Trump himself said he knew nothing about the brothers' release, per the BBC. The latter outlet notes that Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis says he "found out through the media" that the Tates would be arriving in his state. Typically, the governor or his attorney general would be notified in such a case. (This story was updated with new details throughout.)
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