Mike Jeffries, the former CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch, faces charges of sex trafficking for allegedly orchestrating a prostitution ring involving exploited male models across multiple countries. Prosecutors claim he leveraged his status to manipulate aspiring models into participating in sex events, promising career opportunities while enforcing secrecy and compliance through intimidation. The indictment cites at least 15 victims from 2008 to 2015. Jeffries is expected to be tried in New York while maintaining bail.
The former CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch, Mike Jeffries, faces serious allegations of sex trafficking. He is accused of orchestrating a prostitution operation that exploited models across various countries.
Mike Jeffries has been indicted in New York for grave sexual offenses against aspiring models. According to District Attorney Breon Peace, Jeffries leveraged his power and influence as the head of a well-known clothing retailer to exploit young men for sexual gratification, both for himself and his partner.
The appeal of the Abercrombie brand was used to lure young men, who believed that association with the brand would further their modeling careers. The allegations involve at least 15 victims, with incidents reported between 2008 and 2015. The prosecution aims to bring Jeffries, his partner Matthew Smith, and intermediary James Jacobson to trial.
Alleged Crimes Spanning Multiple Locations
The defendants are accused of facilitating a network that transported models to sex parties worldwide. Over the past year, several men have stepped forward, asserting that Jeffries and his partner sexually exploited them at these events. Reports suggest the couple employed an intermediary to recruit young men globally.
The intermediary allegedly arranged transportation for models to high-profile events in locations including New York City, England, France, Italy, and Morocco. “They led the men to believe that participation in these sex events would open doors for modeling opportunities with Abercrombie and enhance their careers,” noted Peace.
The indictment states that victims were required to sign confidentiality agreements prior to attending these events, and they were often asked to surrender personal items like smartphones. According to the prosecutor, the defendants convinced the men that refusal to comply with certain sexual demands could jeopardize their professional aspirations.
Significant Financial Transactions
Victims were subjected to various pressures, including the administration of alcohol, Viagra, and muscle relaxants. There were multiple instances of non-consensual invasive sexual contact. “We have substantial evidence, including travel logs, financial documents, and testimonies from victims and other witnesses,” Peace emphasized.
Prosecutors allege that Jeffries and his partner funneled millions into the prostitution operation, covering extensive expenditures for commercial sex, staff salaries, travel costs, accommodations, and security services.
Reports indicate that the defendants are currently residing in Florida but are expected to be extradited to New York for trial in the coming days. The prosecution has stated that Jeffries will remain out on bail. His attorney has indicated that a detailed statement regarding the allegations will come in court rather than through media channels.
Controversial Legacy and Brand Image
Jeffries led Abercrombie & Fitch from 1992 until his departure in 2014, during which time the brand garnered a reputation for promoting an exclusive and often controversial image. The 80-year-old businessman once infamously remarked that he preferred “cool, good-looking people” as customers and believed that many had no place in his clothing.
Under Jeffries, A&F’s women’s sizing only extended to L, with pants available up to US size 10. The brand’s stores featured half-naked male models and promotional materials that emphasized a muscular male torso or a slim female waist. However, due to recent market challenges, Abercrombie has closed stores in numerous German cities.
In recent years, the brand has made a comeback under the leadership of Fran Horowitz, who took the helm in 2017. She has rebranded the clothing line, redesigned stores, expanded the size range, and made pricing more consumer-friendly.