Influencer Andrew Tate has appeared in a Romanian court to appeal his arrest after being detained for over a month.
Handcuffed by his brother Tristan, he shouted his innocence to waiting journalists.
The two have been in custody since late December and are being investigated by police for alleged rape and exploitation, which they both deny.
Last month, a judge extended their detention until the end of February.
Police have yet to prosecute the brothers, who moved to Romania five years ago.
Andrew’s attorney, Ioan Griga, told reporters Wednesday that he will appeal the extended detention and that he has “new evidence” to refute the prosecution’s arguments.
“The victim denies any crime was committed and the prosecution only believes it was committed,” he said.
The judgment of the appeals court is expected to be issued later today.
Also in court was a new legal adviser hired by the Tate brothers from the United States. Tina Grandian has represented celebrities such as Mike Tyson and Chris Brown, and she specializes in international human rights.
There is speculation that her appointment will bring a fresh approach to Tate’s legal team, which is trying to get her brother’s pretrial release.
The brothers, who are American and British citizens, also hired a communications specialist to respond to the media interest in the case.
Last week, in explaining the decision to keep the Taits in custody for an additional month, the judge said, “Defendants are capable of continuing psychological control over their victims, including by resorting to constant acts of violence. ” he issued a strong statement.
The testimony of the alleged victims “revealed patterns of behavior” and added credibility to their claims. He also emphasized the Tate brothers’ “special danger” due to their “ability to target vulnerable victims.”
Local media have since reported that the alleged victims filed four complaints with the police station near the Tate compound, at least one of which was filed in 2021. At least one complaint was not addressed until Tait’s investigation was launched.
The Police Inspectorate has issued a statement that it has “started a review” of the officers’ conduct at the scene and is determining whether legal action should be taken.
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