Mike Jeffries, the former CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch, appeared in a New York federal court on Friday, pleading not guilty to sex trafficking and prostitution charges. Jeffries, 80, along with his partner Matthew Smith and recruiter James Jacobson, allegedly enticed young men with promises of modeling opportunities, only to coerce them into attending sex-focused gatherings. Prosecutors allege that the events, spanning from 2008 to 2015, were funded and arranged by Jeffries and Smith, while Jacobson reportedly traveled across the U.S. to recruit participants.
According to the indictment, the accused lured young men under the pretense of modeling auditions, during which they were allegedly pressured into sexual activities. Some were reportedly injected with prescription-grade substances to enable acts they otherwise resisted. The indictment follows an FBI investigation triggered by a 2023 BBC report, which detailed claims from aspiring models who said they were manipulated and exploited by Jeffries and his associates.
Jeffries, who stepped down from Abercrombie in 2014 amid controversy over discriminatory practices, posted a $10 million bail bond and is under house arrest with electronic monitoring until his trial. Smith, detained in Florida, awaits arraignment, while Jacobson, who also pleaded not guilty, posted a $500,000 bond and is under similar restrictions.
The former fashion executive has faced prior accusations of cultivating an exclusive image at Abercrombie, once stating the brand only targeted “cool, good-looking people.” The current charges are unrelated to his time with the company but add to a tarnished legacy. A class-action lawsuit is expected from more than 100 alleged victims, many of whom have come forward since last year.
The next hearing is set for December 12, with Jeffries, Smith, and Jacobson each prohibited from contacting witnesses, co-defendants, or alleged victims during the proceedings.
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