Ex-retail executive arrested in Florida alongside two associates in widespread trafficking investigation
In a shocking development that has rocked the fashion industry, Mike Jeffries, the former CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch who transformed the retail brand into a global powerhouse, has been arrested on sex trafficking and interstate prostitution charges, according to senior law enforcement officials familiar with the case.
Breaking development
Federal authorities apprehended Jeffries in West Palm Beach, Florida, alongside two alleged accomplices: Matthew Smith, also of West Palm Beach, and James Jacobson of Wisconsin. Jeffries, who led the prominent clothing retailer from 1992 to 2014, will face charges that stem from a complex investigation into alleged exploitation within the fashion industry.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York has scheduled a press conference for Tuesday at noon to detail the charges against the former retail executive and his associates.
Pattern of allegations
The arrest comes in the wake of a damaging BBC News investigation published last year, which unveiled disturbing allegations against Jeffries. The exposé detailed accounts from twelve men who described their involvement in organized sex events allegedly hosted by Jeffries and his partner Matthew Smith between 2009 and 2015. Several participants reported feeling exploited, with some stating their participation was not voluntary.
When previously confronted with these allegations, Jeffries’ attorney, Brian Bieber, stated that his client would not comment on personal matters. Following the BBC’s revelations, Abercrombie & Fitch distanced itself from its former leader, releasing a statement saying the company was “appalled and disgusted” by the allegations. Bieber has not yet responded to requests for comment regarding today’s charges.
Legal implications
The criminal charges follow a civil lawsuit filed in the aftermath of the BBC report, which alleged that Jeffries used the promise of prestigious modeling contracts to lure and subsequently abuse numerous men, while the company allegedly turned a blind eye to his conduct, as reported by CNBC.
Representing the victims in the class action lawsuit, attorneys Brittany Henderson and Edwards Henderson celebrated the arrests, stating: “Today’s arrests are monumental for the aspiring male models who were victimized by these individuals.”
The legal team emphasized their ongoing commitment to justice, adding: “Their fight for justice does not end here. We look forward to holding Abercrombie and Fitch liable for facilitating this terrible conduct and ensuring that this cannot happen again.”
This developing story represents a significant turning point in a scandal that has cast a dark shadow over the fashion industry’s modeling practices and corporate oversight. Further details are expected to emerge during tomorrow’s federal press conference.
