Mike Jeffries, the former CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch, was arrested on October 22, 2024, on charges of sex trafficking. He is accused of participating in a scheme that exploited aspiring male models between December 2008 and March 2015. Jeffries, along with two associates, allegedly organized sex-themed parties where drugs, alcohol, and Viagra were provided to the models to facilitate sexual acts with attendees.
The indictment includes more than a dozen charges, including trafficking for sexual exploitation and pimping. Jeffries and his associates are scheduled to appear in federal court in Florida and Wisconsin before being arraigned in New York.
This case follows a BBC investigation in 2023 that scrutinized Jeffries for using his position to recruit and exploit young men. Dozens of plaintiffs filed a lawsuit against him and Abercrombie & Fitch, prompting the brand to initiate an independent investigation into the allegations.
Jeffries served as CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch from 1992 until 2014, during which time he transformed the company into a leading fashion brand known for its provocative marketing. Despite a stock market collapse in 2022, the brand saw a remarkable recovery in 2023, achieving a 285% increase in stock performance.
