Key facts
- Andrew and Tristan Tate appeared in Miami federal court seeking bail.
- They are fighting extradition to the UK on charges of rape and trafficking.
- The brothers criticized US jail conditions, describing them as hot with little sunlight and exercise.
- Prosecutors argued the Tates are a flight risk with access to resources and multiple passports.
- A judge will issue a written ruling later on whether to grant bail.
- The UK has filed 59 criminal charges against the brothers.
Andrew and Tristan Tate appeared in Miami federal court on Thursday to argue for their release on bail while fighting extradition to the UK, where they face 59 charges including rape, sex trafficking, and indecent images of a child. The brothers, who were arrested in Miami on July 19, criticized the conditions of their US custody, with Tristan Tate describing his detention as small, hot, and lacking sunlight and exercise, leading to a 14lb weight loss.
During the hearing, defence lawyers cited the brothers' compliance with pretrial release conditions in Romania, where they also faced sex-trafficking charges. They argued that the Tates' high profile would make it nearly impossible for them to flee. However, US government lawyers countered that the brothers are a flight risk, citing their access to resources and claims of possessing multiple passports. Andrew Tate testified that he has never committed the alleged crimes and that he has a "perfect record in the court system," comparing his treatment to that of drug kingpin El Chapo. He also stated he had to return to boxing to support himself financially and admitted to making "stupid things" online to gain attention.
Natasha Sesay, who described herself as having a five-year romantic relationship with Andrew Tate and expecting a second child with him, testified that he has never been violent toward women. The British authorities have until September 16 to submit a full extradition request. US Magistrate Judge Lauren Louis will issue a written ruling at a later date on whether to grant bail. The White House has stated that President Donald Trump will not intervene in the case.