MIAMI (AP) — Social media influencer Tristan Tate testified in federal court on Thursday, stating that he and his brother Andrew cannot adequately defend themselves against criminal sex charges if they remain in a Miami jail while contesting extradition to the United Kingdom. Their lawyers are requesting that a judge permit their release from custody until an extradition hearing can take place regarding charges of rape and sex trafficking in the U.K. The brothers have been held in a federal detention center in Miami since their arrest on July 18.
Prosecutors indicated that the Tates appear to have financial resources and have claimed to possess multiple passports. Their attorneys countered that their high profile and active social media presence make it unlikely for them to flee, noting their cooperation in a separate sex crime case in Romania.
The Tates have gained notoriety as polarizing internet figures, promoting themes of wealth and male dominance through their social media platforms. Andrew Tate, 39, has made statements suggesting that women who are sexually assaulted bear some responsibility for the incidents, while Tristan Tate, 38, has collaborated with his brother on various business ventures, including online webcam pornography.
No date for the extradition hearing has been established, and the U.K. has until mid-September to submit evidence to the State Department. Defense attorney Joseph McBride remarked that he has not encountered a case where U.S. Magistrate Lauren Louis has granted bail while awaiting an extradition hearing, although he expressed confidence in their innocence.
Tristan Tate, during his testimony, emphasized his need to participate in the legal proceedings to clear his name, stating, "I need to take part in these proceedings, I can't do that from the secure housing unit." He also described the conditions at the Miami jail, mentioning issues such as ants and a lack of privacy in his cell, as well as a weight loss of 14 pounds (6.4 kilograms) due to poor food options.
The brothers appeared in court wearing tan prison attire and shackled. Their attorneys argued that the U.K.'s extradition request was inappropriate since their criminal case in Romania is ongoing, and Romanian authorities have allowed them to remain free while complying with court restrictions.
The judge reminded the defense that she must adhere to U.S. laws. The Tates' lawyers claimed that their assertions of wealth and possession of luxury items were exaggerated for social media purposes, including a $50 million superyacht that does not belong to them and rented luxury cars.
The brothers have maintained that their controversial statements have been misinterpreted or intended humorously. Their lawyer, Howard Srebnick, likened Andrew Tate's social media persona to Sacha Baron Cohen's character Ali G.
The former professional kickboxers hold dual U.S. and U.K. citizenship and have amassed millions of followers on social media, where they express support for former President Donald Trump. The White House has stated that the brothers should not expect assistance from the president.