Former Abercrombie & Fitch CEO Mike Jeffries Arrested on Sex Trafficking Charges with Partner and Alleged Middleman

Mike Jeffries

Mike Jeffries, the former CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch, has been arrested along with his British partner Matthew Smith and an alleged middleman on charges of sex trafficking. This development comes after a year-long FBI investigation triggered by a BBC report detailing claims of sexual exploitation and abuse at events hosted by Jeffries and Smith. These events reportedly took place in their New York residences and hotels worldwide.

Jeffries' lawyer stated that they would respond to the allegations after the indictment is unsealed, while Smith's legal representation has not yet provided comments. Abercrombie & Fitch has also declined to comment on the arrests, which have been viewed as a crucial step towards achieving justice for the alleged victims of the trafficking scheme.

The BBC's investigation uncovered a sophisticated operation involving a network of recruiters tasked with finding men for these events. A civil lawsuit filed in New York has accused Jeffries and Smith of serious crimes, including sex trafficking and rape, while also alleging that Abercrombie funded these operations during Jeffries' leadership.

Brad Edwards, a lawyer representing some of the victims, highlighted the significance of the arrests, crediting the BBC's reporting for bringing attention to the case. As the legal proceedings continue, both Jeffries and Abercrombie maintain their innocence, asserting they were unaware of the alleged misconduct.

Former Abercrombie & Fitch CEO Mike Jeffries Arrested on Sex Trafficking Charges with Partner and Alleged Middleman