Mike Jeffries, the former CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch, and his British partner Matthew Smith were arrested on Tuesday, facing sex trafficking charges.
Authorities are yet to disclosed full details, but the FBI and the prosecutor’s office are expected to provide more information during an upcoming press conference.
Jeffries and Smith, along with their alleged middleman, James Jacobson, were apprehended after a lengthy investigation. Lawyers for both men have previously denied any wrongdoing.
Following the arrests, Jeffries’ lawyer stated, “We will respond in detail to the allegations after the Indictment is unsealed, and when appropriate, but plan to do so in the courthouse – not the media.”
A lawyer for Smith has yet to comment, while Abercrombie & Fitch declined to issue any statement on the new developments.
The charges stem from an FBI investigation launched last year after claims that Jeffries and Smith had exploited and abused men during events held in New York residences and international hotels were exposed. The investigation uncovered an organised network of recruiters tasked with sourcing men for these events. Victims claim they were misled about the nature of the gatherings or were coerced into participating in sexual acts. Some men reported being promised modeling opportunities with A&F in exchange for compliance.
One of the alleged victims, David Bradberry, described being coerced into performing sexual acts under the guise of gaining access to Jeffries. He recounted his experience at a party at Jeffries’ Hamptons mansion, noting the “secluded” atmosphere and presence of staff wearing Abercrombie uniforms, which left him feeling powerless to refuse.
In the wake of the allegations, a civil lawsuit was filed, accusing Jeffries and Smith of sex trafficking, rape, and sexual assault. Abercrombie & Fitch was also implicated, accused of funding the sex trafficking operation while Jeffries served as CEO. The brand has since denied any involvement, asserting that it was unaware of the allegations until the investigation came to light.
Brad Edwards, a civil lawyer representing some of the victims, hailed the arrests as a significant step toward justice. He credited the BBC’s investigation and the lawsuit for bringing the issue to light, stating, “These arrests are a huge first step towards obtaining justice for the many victims who were exploited and abused through this sex-trafficking scheme that operated for many years under the legitimate cover Abercrombie provided.”
Abercrombie & Fitch has launched its own independent investigation into the allegations. However, it has remained tight-lipped about when the findings will be released. The company has been fighting to dismiss the civil lawsuit, maintaining that it had no knowledge of the alleged trafficking operation.
Jeffries, once one of the highest-paid CEOs in America, stepped down from his role at Abercrombie & Fitch in 2014 amidst declining sales and mounting controversy. He left with a retirement package reportedly worth $25 million. His tenure at the company was marked by accusations of discrimination, excessive spending, and the unofficial influence of his partner, Matthew Smith.
The case is expected to unfold further as the indictment is unsealed and more details emerge in the coming days.
Chioma Kalu
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