In a high-profile court case, former Abercrombie & Fitch CEO Mike Jeffries has pleaded not guilty to charges alleging he and associates trafficked aspiring male models for sex parties. Jeffries, now 80, appeared in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York on Friday following his arrest on Tuesday.
Authorities accuse Jeffries and his former partner, Matthew Smith, of utilizing a “casting couch” scheme to entice young male models into a global network of private parties.
Jeffries, who left Abercrombie & Fitch in 2014 after a lengthy tenure, stands accused alongside Smith and another individual, James Jacobson, described by prosecutors as a “fixer” who helped orchestrate the alleged operations.
Jacobson, too, pleaded not guilty and awaits trial under house arrest after paying $500,000 in bond. Jeffries was released on a $10 million bail bond secured against a New York property and is subject to house arrest and electronic monitoring.
Allegations of Coercion, Drugs, and Alcohol
According to the prosecution, Jeffries, Smith, and Jacobson allegedly used tactics of “force, fraud, and coercion” to groom victims, providing alcohol and drugs at these events. The prosecutors allege the accused exploited vulnerable men looking to break into modeling by convincing them to attend these private gatherings.
Federal court documents detail accusations from 15 victims, though prosecutors believe there may be additional victims who have not yet come forward. A judge has prohibited Jeffries from contacting any co-defendants, witnesses, or alleged victims as part of his bail conditions.
Upcoming Hearings and Continuing Investigation
The case has captured widespread attention, partly because it builds on findings from a 2023 BBC investigation titled The Abercrombie Guys: The Dark Side of Cool. The documentary featured multiple men who disclosed details of their encounters with Jeffries and alleged that they signed non-disclosure agreements for private parties. Judge Nusrat Choudhury will preside over Jeffries’s next hearing on December 12.
Smith, currently in federal custody in West Palm Beach, Florida, has not yet received an arraignment. A federal judge deemed him a potential flight risk due to his British citizenship. As of now, prosecutors continue to encourage any additional witnesses or victims to come forward.
Abercrombie & Fitch’s Response to Allegations
Following the revelations, Abercrombie & Fitch has publicly condemned the alleged conduct. In a statement, the company noted it was “appalled and disgusted” by the accusations and emphasized a zero-tolerance policy for abuse, harassment, or discrimination.
This developing case sheds light on the alleged dark side of the fashion industry, underscoring how power dynamics can lead to exploitation. The legal proceedings promise to be closely watched as further details emerge.
The Information is Collected from Hindustan Times and Live Mint.
