Fashion Mogul’s Dark Secret: Ex-Abercrombie Boss Faces Sex Trafficking Charges
Mike Jeffries, who once led fashion label Abercrombie & Fitch, faces serious legal trouble. ABC News reports federal prosecutors and the FBI charged him and two others on Tuesday in connection with sex trafficking activities involving multiple victims.
Federal prosecutor Breon Peace alleges former Abercrombie CEO Mike Jeffries — along with Matthew Smith, his romantic partner, and James Jacobson, described as a recruiter — operated an "international sex trafficking and prostitution business" for years. https://t.co/VsS5EKy87L pic.twitter.com/NurKOYsw8b
— NBC New York (@NBCNewYork) October 22, 2024
The Investigation Unfolds
Court documents show Jeffries, his partner Matt Smith, and associate Jim Jacobson allegedly ran an operation that crossed international borders. The charges focus on events between 2008 and 2015. Federal prosecutors identified 15 individuals in their investigation, listed as John Does #1-15.
According to the 16-count indictment, the operation used financial resources and business connections to recruit young men. Prosecutors say Jacobson traveled internationally to meet potential candidates, telling them they might get modeling opportunities with the clothing brand.
After getting arrested in Florida, Jeffries paid a huge $10 million bond to stay out of jail. Smith’s stuck in Florida waiting to go to New York, and Jacobson got out on a $500,000 bond in Minnesota. They’re all heading to court in Long Island soon.
Billionaire and former Abercrombie & Fitch CEO Mark Jeffries and his associates are charged with and were arrested for sex trafficking over a dozen victims: Prosecutors claim. https://t.co/hVdaNWpb7l
— Sorrell ❓ (@Sorrellx11) October 23, 2024
David Bradberry, known from the television series Below Deck, provided testimony about the company’s marketing practices during this period. His statement forms part of a separate civil case.
The FBI seeks additional information. U.S. Attorney Breon Peace states this case highlights serious issues in the fashion and entertainment industries regarding the treatment of aspiring professionals.
When contacted by ABC News, legal representatives for Jeffries and Smith said they would address the allegations in court. The current leadership at Abercrombie & Fitch did not provide comment on these developments.
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