Florida authorities have launched a criminal investigation into controversial internet personality Andrew Tate, who immediately responded by taunting officials and claiming political persecution.
Key Takeaways
- Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Attorney General James Uthmeier have initiated a criminal investigation into Andrew and Tristan Tate following their arrival from Romania.
- The investigation involves allegations of exploiting women, with officials already issuing subpoenas and search warrants.
- Andrew Tate claims the investigation is politically motivated, related to his influence over young men and potential opposition to Casey DeSantis’s rumored political aspirations.
- The Tate brothers were previously detained in Romania on human trafficking charges before travel restrictions were lifted, allowing their entry to the US.
- At least one Florida woman has alleged she was lured to Romania under false pretenses and pressured into pornography.
Florida Launches Investigation After Tates Enter US
Internet personality Andrew Tate and his brother Tristan now face a criminal investigation in Florida led by Governor Ron DeSantis and Attorney General James Uthmeier. The probe began shortly after the Tate brothers arrived in the United States following their release from human trafficking charges in Romania. Officials have already conducted preliminary inquiries and issued subpoenas and search warrants as part of the investigation, which appears to focus on allegations similar to those the brothers faced in Europe.
The Tate brothers were previously accused of running a criminal ring that exploited women in Europe, with Andrew also facing rape accusations. Their travel restrictions were reportedly lifted after pressure from the Trump administration, enabling them to enter the United States despite the ongoing legal issues in Romania. The Florida investigation may be examining similar patterns of alleged exploitation, particularly since at least one alleged victim from Florida has claimed she was lured to Romania and coerced into creating pornographic content.
Tate’s Defiant Response and Political Claims
Andrew Tate has responded to the investigation with public defiance and provocative statements. In a recent interview with Candace Owens, Tate directly challenged Florida authorities while claiming he takes precautions against potential evidence collection. He maintains his innocence and portrays himself as being prepared for any legal action authorities might take against him.
“Come get me, arrest me, perp walk me, put me on the news,” he angrily said during an interview with Candace Owens posted on Wednesday afternoon. “Tell everyone I’m a human trafficker.” – Source
Tate has framed the investigation as politically motivated, suggesting that his influence over young men makes him a target. He specifically claimed that the investigation might be related to Casey DeSantis’s rumored gubernatorial candidacy, implying that he could mobilize opposition. “They fear me because of my political influence. I can galvanize the masculine youth in any direction that I believe fit,” Tate told Owens during the interview, portraying himself as a political threat rather than a legitimate subject of criminal inquiry.
Official Response and Allegations
A source from Governor DeSantis’s office has rejected Tate’s characterization of the investigation as politically motivated. The source emphasized that the governor is focused on justice and not personal vendettas, suggesting that the investigation is based on substantial allegations rather than political considerations. Meanwhile, Attorney General Uthmeier has committed to using all available resources to pursue justice in the case.
“You think I’m not ready? F—ing come get me, raid my house, take my stuff. You think I sleep with a phone full of evidence? You don’t think I wipe my phone every night? You think I’m dumb?” – Source
The investigation comes at a time when Tate continues to maintain significant influence online despite his legal troubles. Known for his controversial statements about women and masculine identity, Tate has built a substantial following, particularly among young men. The Florida investigation represents another chapter in his ongoing legal challenges, which now span multiple countries and jurisdictions. Whether these new allegations will result in charges remains to be seen as authorities continue their work.
Sources:
- Andrew Tate taunts Gov. DeSantis after Florida launches criminal investigation: ‘Arrest me’
- Florida attorney general says the state is conducting active criminal investigation against the Tate brothers
