Mike Jeffries, the ex-CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch, faces charges of sex trafficking and interstate prostitution in a federal indictment from New York. #MikeJeffriesCharges
These charges arise from allegations that Jeffries, along with his partner Matthew Smith and recruiter James Jacobson, ran a long-term scheme exploiting vulnerable young men.
Prosecutors assert that Jeffries and Smith pressured these individuals into sexual acts, often misleading them by offering lucrative modeling opportunities with Abercrombie & Fitch.
Many victims, some as young as 19, believed that attending Jeffries’ events would boost their fashion careers. Instead, the indictment reveals that traffickers moved these men across the U.S. and to countries like England, France, Italy, Morocco, and St. Barts. They endured non-consensual sexual activities during this exploitation.
The indictment, which covers criminal actions from 2008 to 2015, illustrates a troubling pattern of abuse. Jeffries and Smith allegedly organized “sex events” where men were manipulated or coerced into participating.
Prosecutors claim that Jacobson and others recruited these men, enticing them with promises of career growth. Jeffries’ family office staff reportedly managed logistics, security, and provided alcohol, drugs, and sexual items for these events. In several cases, men were compelled to sign non-disclosure agreements and surrender personal belongings, deepening the atmosphere of coercion.
These charges come a year after Jeffries and Abercrombie & Fitch were named in a civil lawsuit. The lawsuit accused Jeffries and Smith of operating a similar sex trafficking ring. Filed in Manhattan federal court, it revealed a pattern of sexual exploitation at modeling events. Abercrombie & Fitch distanced itself from Jeffries, acknowledging the seriousness of the allegations and expressing disgust at the behavior reported. #MikeJeffriesCharges
The company, led by current CEO Fran Horowitz, has implemented significant cultural and operational changes since Jeffries’ departure in 2014, aiming to rebuild its tarnished reputation.
Uncovering the Truth Behind Mike Jeffries’ Charges
Furthermore, the allegations suggest that Jeffries collaborated with his partner and a recruiter to run this trafficking ring. Many victims believed they would advance their careers in the fashion industry. Instead, they endured horrific experiences, highlighting the grim reality of the Mike Jeffries charges.
