Former Abercrombie & Fitch CEO Mike Jeffries Arrested in Sex Trafficking Case
Jeffries and Partner Matthew Smith Charged with Operating Prostitution Ring
Mike Jeffries, the former CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch, and his partner Matthew Smith have been arrested and charged with running a prostitution and international sex trafficking operation. The charges also implicate James Jacobson, the couple’s alleged middleman.
Federal prosecutors revealed that Jeffries, who used his wealth and power as A&F’s CEO, engaged in violent and exploitative sexual acts through force, fraud, and coercion. According to U.S. Attorney Breon Peace, Jeffries used his status to traffic men for his and Smith’s sexual pleasure.
The investigation, which was triggered by media reports, followed a BBC exposé that highlighted Jeffries and Smith’s involvement in sex trafficking. The report uncovered a well-organized operation where Jacobson, acting as a recruiter, found men to participate in sexual acts in exchange for money. The men were flown to Jeffries’ New York home, where they were allegedly pressured to consume alcohol, Viagra, and muscle relaxants before being sexually exploited.
Prosecutors claim Jeffries and Smith spent millions maintaining this operation, which included international travel, hotel stays, and security for events. The indictment mentions 15 victims, although authorities suggest the actual number of exploited men is much higher.
Following the arrests, Jeffries was released on a $10 million bond, while Jacobson was granted a $500,000 bond. Smith, however, was detained. Their next court appearance is scheduled for Friday.
The charges stem from multiple allegations, including sex trafficking, rape, and sexual assault, with victims coming forward to accuse Jeffries and Smith of exploitation between 2009 and 2015. Several men described being misled about the nature of the events or coerced into sex acts, with promises of fame and modeling opportunities at A&F.
In addition to the criminal charges, a civil lawsuit has been filed accusing Abercrombie & Fitch of funding Jeffries’ sex trafficking operation during his tenure as CEO. This lawsuit follows the BBC’s investigation, which documented the scope of the exploitation.
Brad Edwards, a civil attorney representing the victims, expressed that the arrests marked a significant step toward justice for the men who were sexually exploited under the guise of A&F’s influence.
As of now, Abercrombie & Fitch has declined to comment on the criminal developments, stating that they were unaware of the sex trafficking activities conducted by Jeffries during his time as CEO. However, the company did indicate it is investigating the matter internally.
Mike Jeffries, once one of the highest-paid CEOs in the U.S., resigned from his role at Abercrombie & Fitch in 2014, amid declining sales and controversies surrounding his leadership. He walked away with a retirement package valued at $25 million.