Former Abercrombie & Fitch CEO Mike Jeffries, Partner, and Associate Arrested in FBI Sex Trafficking Probe
New York, NY – In a shocking development, former Abercrombie & Fitch CEO Mike Jeffries, his partner Matt Smith, and associate Jim Jacobson were taken into custody Tuesday by federal authorities as part of a sprawling sex trafficking investigation.
According to sources familiar with the investigation, the FBI and federal prosecutors in Brooklyn have been probing allegations of sexual exploitation and abuse of young men at parties hosted by the trio in the United States and abroad.
The arrests come after a year-long civil lawsuit filed by alleged victims, who claim Jeffries, Smith, and Jacobson used Abercrombie’s modeling opportunities to lure and coerce young men into sex acts.
Allegations of Sex Trafficking and Exploitation
The civil lawsuit, filed in January 2023, accuses Jeffries, Smith, and Jacobson of running a sex trafficking ring that exploited dozens of young men. The plaintiffs allege they were recruited by Jacobson, who promised modeling opportunities with Abercrombie & Fitch.
Once recruited, the young men were allegedly forced to participate in sex acts with Jeffries and Smith at parties hosted at Jeffries’ Hamptons estate and other locations worldwide.
Abercrombie & Fitch’s Involvement
The lawsuit also names Abercrombie & Fitch as a defendant, alleging the company knew or should have known about the sex trafficking ring and failed to take action.
“Abercrombie & Fitch was aware of, and indeed encouraged, the oversexualization of young men as part of its marketing strategy,” said Brad Edwards, attorney for the plaintiffs. “This created a culture that allowed Jeffries, Smith, and Jacobson to exploit and abuse young men.”
FBI Investigation
The FBI launched its investigation in January 2023, following the filing of the civil lawsuit. Federal prosecutors confirmed the investigation, stating, “The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York has launched a criminal investigation of the alleged events and occurrences discussed in Plaintiff’s Complaint.”
Reaction from Defendants
Brian Bieber, an attorney for Michael Jeffries, responded to the arrests, saying, “We will respond in detail to the allegations after the Indictment is unsealed, and when appropriate, but plan to do so in the courthouse – not the media.”
Victims Speak Out
David Bradberry, a former crewman on the reality series “Below Deck” and one of the plaintiffs, spoke out about his experience.
“Mike Jeffries made Abercrombie successful by the oversexualization of young men,” Bradberry said. “He used his power and influence to exploit and abuse us. We were just pawns in his game.”
Consequences and Implications
The arrests and allegations have far-reaching consequences for Abercrombie & Fitch, Jeffries, Smith, and Jacobson.
If convicted, the defendants face significant prison time and fines.
Abercrombie & Fitch’s reputation and brand value are also at risk.
Investigation Ongoing
The FBI and federal prosecutors continue to investigate the allegations.
As the investigation unfolds, more victims may come forward.
Stay tuned for updates
This breaking news story will be updated as more information becomes available.
