Former Abercrombie & Fitch CEO Charged with Sex Trafficking of Male Models
Shocking allegations have rocked the fashion world as Mike Jeffries, the former CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch, has been arrested and charged with sex trafficking. Prosecutors claim Jeffries, his partner Matthew Smith, and their associate James Jacobson orchestrated a scheme involving aspiring male models.
The "Casting Couch" Ploy
According to US Attorney Breon Peace, Jeffries, Smith, and Jacobson used a "casting couch" tactic to lure young models into attending sex parties around the globe. These parties took place at their residences in the US, as well as luxurious locations in Britain, France, Italy, and Morocco.
Victims were allegedly plied with alcohol and drugs, with some even being given Viagra and muscle relaxants. Prosecutors allege that when men were unable or unwilling to consent, Jeffries and Smith would resort to "invasive sexual and violent contact."
A Vast and Secretive Operation
Peace stated that Jeffries and Smith invested millions of dollars to maintain the secrecy of their operation. They developed an intricate referral system during the interview process, misleading men about the true nature of the events they were invited to attend.
"They caused the men to believe that attending these sex events could yield modeling opportunities with Abercrombie," Peace explained.
Abercrombie & Fitch Responds
In response to the shocking allegations, Abercrombie & Fitch released a statement expressing their "appall and disgust" at the actions of Jeffries and Smith.
Victims Speak Out
Fifteen anonymous victims are cited in the charging documents, but prosecutors believe the scope of the alleged trafficking is much larger. They are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Brittany Henderson, a lawyer representing the victims, stated, "Today’s arrests are monumental for the aspiring male models who were victimized by these individuals. Their fight for justice does not end here. We look forward to holding Abercrombie and Fitch liable for facilitating this terrible conduct and ensuring that this cannot happen again."
The Case Unfolds
The case stems from a 2023 BBC investigation, "The Abercrombie Guys: The Dark Side of Cool," which shed light on the alleged sex events organized by Jeffries.
Jeffries left Abercrombie & Fitch in 2014 with a hefty golden parachute worth $25 million. He and Smith will appear in federal court in West Palm Beach, Florida, while Jacobson, arrested in Wisconsin, will face charges in Saint Paul, Minnesota.
Have you been affected by this case or have information to share? Please contact the authorities.
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