Mike Jeffries, the former CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch, has been arrested on charges related to sex trafficking and interstate prostitution, officials announced on Tuesday. The arrest occurred in West Palm Beach, Florida, alongside two associates: Matthew Smith from West Palm Beach and James Jacobson from Wisconsin, who are also facing sex trafficking charges.
Jeffries and Smith made their first court appearance in Florida on Tuesday afternoon and are scheduled for arraignment at a later date in the Eastern District of New York. Jeffries led the clothing brand from 1992 until 2014.
The trio faces one count of sex trafficking and 15 counts of interstate prostitution related to 15 alleged victims. According to a federal indictment, Jeffries, Smith—who is also his romantic partner—and Jacobson, described as a recruiter, ran an “international sex trafficking and prostitution business” from 2008 to 2015.
The allegations detail how they organized “sex events” across various international locations, including England, France, Italy, Morocco, St. Barts, and New York, employing coercive and deceitful tactics for recruitment and solicitation of men for commercial sex.
Participants were reportedly misled into believing attendance could advance their modeling careers, and failing to comply with certain requests during these events could negatively impact their prospects. Attendees had to sign non-disclosure agreements and were required to leave their wallets and cell phones behind.
The indictment claims the group also hired exclusive household staff to facilitate and oversee these events, providing attendees with alcohol, muscle relaxants known as “poppers,” lubricant, Viagra, and condoms. Payments for attending the events were allegedly handled by Jacobson or the staff.
Breon Peace, the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, asserted that Jeffries and Smith invested millions in this illegal operation, covering staff wages, travel, and maintaining secrecy. Potential candidates for the events underwent an interview process where they were not fully briefed on what the events entailed, with some allegedly engaging in acts of commercial sex with Jacobson during these initial screenings.
Peace further detailed that attendees were pressured to consume drugs and alcohol and, on multiple occasions, Jeffries and Smith allegedly subjected unwilling men to invasive sexual acts and violence.
Peace criticized the abuse of power in this scheme, emphasizing the exploitation of vulnerable individuals hoping to establish careers in fashion or entertainment. He warned individuals who exploit others should expect severe legal consequences.
Following their court appearances, Jeffries was granted a $10 million bond under conditions, while Smith remains in custody as he is considered a flight risk. Peace revealed that the investigation was prompted by media reports.
This arrest follows a significant BBC News report from a year prior, which accused Jeffries of exploiting young men at sex parties he hosted, revealing testimonies from numerous individuals regarding their experiences during events between 2009 and 2015. Jeffries’ attorney indicated that they would formally respond to the allegations following the unsealing of the indictment.
In response to Jeffries’ actions, a civil lawsuit was filed against Abercrombie & Fitch, asserting that the company turned a blind eye to Jeffries’ alleged misconduct. Victims’ attorney Brittany Henderson expressed hope that today’s arrests would lead to accountability for those harmed and urged for systemic changes to prevent such conduct in the future. The investigation remains active, with authorities encouraging any additional victims or witnesses to come forward.