Tate brothers to fight extradition to UK over rape and trafficking charges

Social media influencers Andrew and Tristan Tate will remain in US custody as they fight extradition to the United Kingdom, where they face charges of rape and sex trafficking, according to court proceedings on Monday.

US Magistrate Lauren Louis set a detention hearing for August 13 to determine whether the brothers should stay in jail or be released during what could be a months-long extradition process. The Tates were not required to appear in court on Monday and have remained in prison in Miami since their arrest on July 18.

The brothers' lawyer, Joseph McBride, said they will oppose extradition and that the allegations are unfounded. "We are, of course, objecting to extradition because Andrew and Tristan are innocent," McBride said after the hearing. "They've never done nothing wrong. They shouldn't be extradited for crimes they did not commit."

McBride also suggested the arrest was politically motivated, though he did not provide details. "There's no question about it," he told reporters. He added that the brothers were surprised by their arrest.

The charges stem from allegations in the UK, where the brothers are accused of rape and sex trafficking. British authorities issued 38 new charges against them, including rape and human trafficking, according to reports. The brothers have repeatedly denied any wrongdoing.

The Tates have become among the world's most polarising internet personalities, known for promoting wealth, male dominance and misogyny through their social media platforms. Their legal troubles span multiple countries, including the US, UK and Romania.

During their brief court appearance on Monday, the brothers wore tan prison uniforms and handcuffs, and neither spoke during the hearing. Their lawyer said they want the US government to turn over documents that UK officials submitted to secure their arrest, arguing that the evidence is weak. "They don't have anything but the accusations," McBride said. "It's just their word against our word right now."

The case continues to develop as the brothers remain in federal detention in Miami.