n a shocking development, Mike Jeffries, the former CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch, has been arrested on charges of sex trafficking and interstate prostitution.
The arrest took place in West Palm Beach, Florida, and comes alongside two associates, Matthew Smith and James Jacobson, who are also facing similar charges.
The trio is expected to appear in federal court in Florida and Wisconsin on October 22, with further arraignments scheduled in the Eastern District of New York.
Jeffries, who led the iconic clothing brand from 1992 until 2014, now finds himself at the center of a disturbing federal indictment.
READ ALSO: Woman Found ‘Mummified’ in Liverpool Flat After Seven Months
According to the indictment, Jeffries and his associates allegedly operated an “international sex trafficking and prostitution business” from 2008 to 2015.
They are accused of organizing elaborate “sex events” across various locations, including England, France, Italy, Morocco, St. Barts, and New York.
The events reportedly utilized coercive tactics to recruit and maintain the men involved, who were often misled into believing participation could enhance their modeling careers.
Attendees were required to sign non-disclosure agreements and surrender their wallets and cell phones during the events, further isolating them from outside support.
The indictment claims that Jeffries and his associates employed a select group of household staff to facilitate these events, providing alcohol, muscle relaxants, and other substances to those in attendance.
READ ALSO: Justin Bieber Pays Tribute to Liam Payne: ‘Rest Easy, Liam’
Each individual faces serious charges, including a single count of sex trafficking and 15 counts of interstate prostitution tied to multiple alleged victims.
This arrest follows a year after a BBC News investigation unveiled accusations that Jeffries exploited men during the sex parties he hosted, with testimonies from several attendees claiming they were coerced or exploited.
A press conference is scheduled for October 22, where the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York is expected to provide further details about the case.
