Ex-Abercrombie CEO arrested on sex trafficking charges

Mike Jeffries, his partner Matthew Smith, and their alleged accomplice James Jacobson are accused of using a "casting couch" tactic to recruit and exploit male models. They allegedly took these men to various locations, including Jeffries' and Smith's homes, as well as venues in Britain, France, Italy, and Morocco, with the intention of violating their bodily integrity.

Mike Jeffries, the former CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch, has been arrested along with his partner Matthew Smith and a third individual, Jim Jacobson. The three men have been charged with 16 counts, including interstate prostitution and sex trafficking. This arrest comes after years of sexual misconduct allegations, which led to a civil suit filed by victims in 2023, prompting a federal investigation. Multiple men have come forward claiming they were exploited and recruited for sex events by Jeffries. The allegations against Jeffries and his partner have been denied by their lawyers, with Jeffries' attorney stating they plan to respond to the allegations in detail. The FBI and prosecutors are expected to release more information at a press conference.