Former Abercrombie & Fitch CEO Mike Jeffries and his alleged accomplice, James Jacobson, pleaded not guilty to sex trafficking and interstate prostitution charges in a federal court in Central Islip, New York. Jeffries is out on a $10 million bond with strict conditions, while Jacobson has a $500,000 bond in Wisconsin. Another accomplice, Matthew Smith, remains in custody in Florida awaiting bail arrangements.
The trio is accused of running an international sex trafficking and prostitution ring from 2008 to 2015, using coercive tactics to recruit aspiring models and other men. They organized sex events in various locations, luring victims who believed noncompliance could harm their careers. The operation involved a security company, nondisclosure agreements, and intimidation to silence any threats.
Prosecutors allege that Jeffries and Smith spent millions on the enterprise, paying staff to manage the sex events and ensure secrecy. Victims were paid in cash, sometimes amounting to hundreds of thousands of dollars. The trio used burner phones, referral systems, and an interview process to keep victims unaware of the events’ details.
Federal investigators initially learned of the activities through media reports, with the BBC publishing accusations of exploitation at Jeffries’ sex parties. Abercrombie & Fitch, under Jeffries’ leadership, faced criticism for racist practices and discrimination lawsuits. Following the BBC report, lawsuits were filed against Jeffries and the company, alleging sexual abuse.
Jeffries, known for his controversial tenure at Abercrombie & Fitch, is now facing serious criminal charges related to the sex trafficking operation he allegedly ran with his associates.
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