Former Abercrombie CEO arrested for alleged sex trafficking ring

Former Abercrombie & Fitch CEO Mike Jeffries, along with Matt Smith and Jim Jacobson, was arrested on Tuesday following a criminal investigation into sex trafficking allegations involving over a dozen victims, stated the FBI and federal prosecutors.

Jeffries, Smith, and Jacobson face accusations of running an international sex trafficking ring that lured young men to parties in the U.S. and abroad, according to a 16-count indictment.

The indictment claims Jeffries used his financial resources, his power as Abercrombie’s CEO, and a network of employees, contractors, and security professionals, including Jacobson, to operate a business focused on their sexual desires while maintaining secrecy.

Ex Abercrombie CEO arrested with sex trafficking
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Prosecutors revealed that the trio allegedly compensated numerous men to travel globally for sex acts over at least seven years, beginning in late 2008. Fifteen victims, referred to as John Does #1-#15, were mentioned in the indictment. Jeffries is accused of employing household staff to manage and supervise the “Sex Events.”

Authorities believe there are more victims and urge them to come forward. Prosecutors allege Jacobson travelled across the U.S. and internationally to recruit and interview men for these events. During these “tryouts,” he allegedly required candidates to engage in sex acts with him.

The indictment suggests many men were misled, thinking participation would lead to modelling opportunities with Abercrombie or advance their careers. Conversely, non-compliance could negatively impact their careers.

The defendants face charges of sex trafficking and interstate prostitution. Jeffries was released on a $10 million bond after a brief court appearance in Florida on Tuesday afternoon. Dean Kaire, an attorney representing several victims, remarked that the arrest marked a significant step forward for the survivors.

David Bradberry, a former crewman on “Below Deck,” accused Jeffries of exploiting young men under the guise of modelling opportunities, forcing them into drug use and sex acts. Following the arrests, Kaire commended the bravery of survivors who came forward and vowed continued legal support.

Ex Abercrombie CEO arrested with sex trafficking pic.twitter.com/LRVnFaFFrU

— Rose Renner (@RoseRenner50) October 23, 2024

Smith, a U.K. citizen, will be transferred to New York for arraignment. Jacobson, arrested in Minnesota, was released on a $500,000 bond after a court appearance in St. Paul. Jeffries and Jacobson are scheduled for arraignment on Friday at the federal courthouse in Central Islip, Long Island.

Jeffries’ and Smith’s attorneys, Brian Bieber and Joe Nascimento, stated they would respond to the allegations in court, not in the media. Jacobson’s attorney declined to comment. Federal prosecutors confirmed the investigation began in January after a civil lawsuit was filed a year prior.

Jeffries, who led Abercrombie from 1992 to 2014, faces civil lawsuits alleging exploitation of young men at parties he hosted globally. Brad Edwards, representing several plaintiffs, claimed the sex trafficking operation permeated Abercrombie, enabling the exploitation of many young aspiring models.

In a statement, Abercrombie & Fitch expressed disgust at Jeffries’ alleged behaviour, emphasising his employment ended nearly a decade ago. The company pledged full cooperation with law enforcement.