Andrew Tate and his brother Tristan are seeking to challenge the Crown Prosecution Service’s decision to withhold the names of their accusers in the UK, the High Court has heard. The CPS authorised charges against the brothers in March 2024 for alleged offences between 2012 and 2016.
Charges and Allegations
Andrew Tate, 39, faces 10 charges including rape, actual bodily harm, human trafficking and controlling prostitution for gain relating to three alleged victims. Tristan Tate, 37, faces 11 charges including rape, actual bodily harm and human trafficking against one alleged victim. The pair are due to be extradited to the UK following proceedings in Romania.
Legal Arguments
The CPS argued in court documents that there is a “real risk” the Tates would publish accusers’ names on social media or contact them, interfering with justice. At the High Court in London on Tuesday, the brothers’ lawyers contended that withholding identities impedes their defence and breaches their right to a fair trial under Article 6 of the European Convention on Human Rights.
Their barrister, Sallie Bennett-Jenkins, called the CPS’s assumption an “inflated assumption of risk”. She stated in written submissions: “It is hard to avoid the conclusion that they have been treated differently from other suspects or defendants in criminal proceedings. The controversial opinions of the [Tates] are not a proper basis for denying them basic information about the criminal allegations they face.”
CPS Position
CPS lawyer Tom Little told the court the decision to withhold names was “time-limited” until “proceedings commence substantively” in the UK, and the men would have sufficient time to prepare for trial upon return. The court heard the Tates remain in Romania under judicial control, and the CPS rejected their offer to be interviewed under caution in Bucharest.
Mr Justice Chamberlain said he would rule on the judicial review application by the end of the week. A CPS spokesperson said: “Tackling violence against women and girls is a priority for the CPS, and we are committed to treating every victim with the care and protection they deserve. We await the high court’s decision and will consider our next steps.”
