Mike Jeffries, former CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch, along with his partner Matthew Smith and a recruiter, Jim Jacobson, have been arrested on serious charges of sex trafficking. The trio is accused of orchestrating a sophisticated operation that sexually exploited young men under the guise of career opportunities in fashion and entertainment. Jeffries, who led the company from 1992 to 2014, allegedly used his influence and wealth to lure victims to private parties in various locations, including the U.S., England, France, Italy, Morocco, and St. Barts.
According to U.S. Attorney Breon Peace, the men were trafficked across international borders for commercial sex acts, often coerced and defrauded through promises of success in the fashion industry. Jacobson reportedly acted as a recruiter, conducting "try-outs" where the men were paid for sex, with Smith giving final approval before they were flown to exclusive events hosted by Jeffries and Smith. The indictment details violent and coercive acts that targeted vulnerable individuals with limited resources, exploiting their aspirations for professional success.
Jeffries and Jacobson were released on bond—$10 million for Jeffries and $500,000 for Jacobson—while Smith remains detained due to his dual U.S.-UK citizenship, which poses a flight risk. Prosecutors are calling the operation one of the most organized sex trafficking rings in U.S. history, marking a significant moment in the pursuit of justice for the victims, many of whom were manipulated through the so-called "casting couch" system.
This high-profile case highlights the abuse of power within the fashion industry, serving as a warning to others who may exploit young talent for personal gain. Jeffries and the other defendants are expected to face trial in the Eastern District of New York, where they could face long-term imprisonment if convicted.
According to U.S. Attorney Breon Peace, the men were trafficked across international borders for commercial sex acts, often coerced and defrauded through promises of success in the fashion industry. Jacobson reportedly acted as a recruiter, conducting "try-outs" where the men were paid for sex, with Smith giving final approval before they were flown to exclusive events hosted by Jeffries and Smith. The indictment details violent and coercive acts that targeted vulnerable individuals with limited resources, exploiting their aspirations for professional success.
Jeffries and Jacobson were released on bond—$10 million for Jeffries and $500,000 for Jacobson—while Smith remains detained due to his dual U.S.-UK citizenship, which poses a flight risk. Prosecutors are calling the operation one of the most organized sex trafficking rings in U.S. history, marking a significant moment in the pursuit of justice for the victims, many of whom were manipulated through the so-called "casting couch" system.
This high-profile case highlights the abuse of power within the fashion industry, serving as a warning to others who may exploit young talent for personal gain. Jeffries and the other defendants are expected to face trial in the Eastern District of New York, where they could face long-term imprisonment if convicted.