Who is Kat Torres, the Brazilian influencer imprisoned for trafficking and slavery?
Kat Torres, once a Brazilian model residing in the United States and renowned as a wellness influencer, experienced a dramatic downfall. Following an FBI investigation into the disappearance of two women in her care in
Kat Torres, once a Brazilian model residing in the United States and renowned as a wellness influencer, experienced a dramatic downfall. Following an FBI investigation into the disappearance of two women in her care in 2022, Torres was sentenced to eight years in prison for charges related to human trafficking and slavery.
However, this was not the only accusation leveled against Torres. Several other women came forward with horrifying accounts of being trafficked and enslaved by her. Initially attracted to Torres’ story of rising from poverty in Brazil to becoming a social media influencer connected with Hollywood celebrities, these women recounted feeling hopeful upon discovering Torres’ Instagram page in 2017.
Torres’ fame extended beyond social media, with rumors circulating about her relationship with actor Leonardo DiCaprio and her portrayal of a spiritual guide with clairvoyant abilities. Despite these claims and her appearances on Brazilian television, Torres remained secretive about her personal life, allegedly due to a pact to keep her relationship with DiCaprio private.
Despite her outward success, revelations from former roommates suggested Torres may have turned to hallucinogenic drugs, potentially influencing her transformation into a life coach and hypnotist. Under this new persona, she launched a wellness website and subscription service promising subscribers pathways to achieving wealth, love, and self-esteem through self-help resources and consultations.
However, more than 20 women who interacted with Torres described experiences of exploitation and manipulation, leading to emotional scars and ongoing therapy for recovery.