Fashion Empire Leader Faces Federal Sex Crime Charges
Federal prosecutors have revealed disturbing details of an alleged international sex trafficking operation run by former Abercrombie & Fitch CEO Mike Jeffries, whose arrest Tuesday marks a stunning fall for one of fashion retail’s most influential executives. The investigation has uncovered a sophisticated network that allegedly preyed upon aspiring models, using the allure of the fashion industry to facilitate exploitation. The case has sent shockwaves through the fashion world and raised serious questions about power, vulnerability, and exploitation in the modeling industry.
5 Key Points
- Former CEO Mike Jeffries was arrested on sex trafficking and interstate prostitution charges.
- The operation allegedly spanned multiple countries from 2008 to 2015.
- Victims included aspiring models as young as 19 years old.
- Jeffries was released on a $10 million bond with GPS monitoring.
- Dozens of witnesses are expected to testify about alleged exploitation.
Luxury Properties Mask International Exploitation Ring
The federal indictment reveals an operation of astounding scope, with alleged sex trafficking events orchestrated across prestigious international locations, including England, France, Italy, Morocco, and St. Barts. Prosecutors allege that Jeffries, his romantic partner Matthew Smith, and recruiter James Jacobson carefully selected these exclusive venues to legitimize their scheme. The operation extended from lavish European destinations to high-end locations in New York City and the Hamptons. According to court documents, the trio specifically targeted financially vulnerable individuals who aspired to break into the notoriously competitive fashion industry. Many victims had previous connections to the Abercrombie brand, having worked in stores or modeled for the company. The sophisticated operation allegedly manipulated these dreams of success, using the promise of modeling opportunities to lure victims into compromising situations.
Burner Phones and Security Teams Shield Executive’s Secret Life
Prosecutors detail an elaborate security apparatus designed to protect the alleged trafficking operation from exposure. The enterprise employed a full-service security company to administer non-disclosure agreements and conduct thorough background checks on potential victims. This security team allegedly engaged in surveillance and intimidation of individuals who threatened to expose the operation. The organization utilized burner phones for all communications, demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of electronic surveillance avoidance. Court documents reveal that millions were spent maintaining this veil of secrecy, including substantial payments to staff and security personnel. The operation allegedly maintained a specialized household staff trained to facilitate and supervise the events, providing various substances, including alcohol, muscle relaxants, and prescription medications.
Non-Disclosure Agreements and Seized Phones Silence Victims
The operation reportedly employed strict control measures to maintain power over its victims. Upon arrival at events, participants were required to surrender their wallets and cell phones, effectively isolating them from outside contact. Victims were compelled to sign non-disclosure agreements before learning the true nature of the events. The indictment details a disturbing “tryout” process where potential victims were not informed about the sexual nature of the events beforehand. Some victims were allegedly pressured to consume alcohol and drugs, with prosecutors claiming that “prescription-grade erection-inducing substances” were administered without consent. The documentation suggests that hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash payments were used to buy victims’ silence.
BBC Investigation Sparks Federal Criminal Probe
The criminal charges follow a year-long sequence of revelations that began with a BBC News exposé published in 2023. The investigation featured accounts from twelve men who described attending or organizing events involving sex acts for Jeffries and Smith between 2009 and 2015. Several victims reported they did not participate willingly in these activities. The media coverage prompted U.S. Attorney Breon Peace’s office to launch its investigation, ultimately leading to Tuesday’s arrests. Prosecutors have assembled “dozens of witnesses” to testify about their experiences. The investigation remains active, with authorities seeking additional victims who may have been exploited after 2015.
Class Action Lawsuit Targets Retail Giant’s Oversight
In the wake of Jeffries’ arrest, civil attorneys have initiated legal action against Abercrombie & Fitch for allegedly enabling the misconduct. Attorney Brittany Henderson, representing victims in a class action lawsuit, called the arrests “monumental for the aspiring male models who were victimized.” The suit alleges that the company turned a blind eye to Jeffries’ behavior while he served as CEO. Abercrombie & Fitch has responded to the allegations, stating they were “appalled and disgusted” by the BBC’s initial report. The company now faces scrutiny over its potential role in facilitating the alleged trafficking operation during Jeffries’ tenure as CEO from 1992 to 2014.
On this page:
