Andrew Tate's upcoming civil trial at the High Court has been adjourned after Hertfordshire Constabulary reopened an investigation into sexual abuse allegations against him. The judge, Mrs Justice Lambert, announced the adjournment at the end of a preliminary hearing on Tuesday.
Four women are suing the influencer over allegations of sexual violence, including claims that he grabbed one by the throat on several occasions in 2015, assaulted her with a belt, and pointed a gun at her face. Tate's barristers have stated there is a “total denial of wrongdoing”.
The civil case stems from allegations of rape and sexual assault reported to Hertfordshire Constabulary in 2014 and 2015. The original police investigation concluded in 2019, and the Crown Prosecution Service decided not to bring charges. However, in March, the force announced it would reinvestigate the alleged offences.
Vanessa Marshall KC, representing Tate, requested the civil trial be paused due to the “real risk” that Tate would not have access to material that could help his defence while the criminal reinvestigation is ongoing. She noted that the police possess over half a million chat and SMS records, photos, videos, and other files from the original investigation.
Anne Studd KC, representing the four women, expressed disappointment at the late adjournment, stating it was “at least very unfortunate indeed”. The judge indicated there would be a “regrouping in July” and a potential substantive hearing before Christmas. Separately, Tate is bringing a legal challenge against the Crown Prosecution Service, with a hearing scheduled for June 23.
