Former Abercrombie & Fitch chief executive Mike Jeffries and his British partner have been arrested on charges related to running an international sex trafficking operation, U.S. federal investigators announced on Tuesday.
Federal investigators in New York presented evidence detailing the activities of Jeffries, his partner Matthew Smith, and their alleged accomplice Jim Jacobson. All three men were arrested on Tuesday morning.
According to FBI evidence, Jeffries, the American former CEO of the popular clothing brand, allegedly used his influence and financial power over several years to traffic men for sexual exploitation, alongside his British partner.
Federal prosecutor Breon Peace said: “The charging documents describe in disturbing detail the violent and exploitative acts allegedly committed by the defendants, which will be addressed in court”.
The operation allegedly offered victims either money or the prospect of a modelling career. According to the BBC, victims were sometimes required to undergo “auditions” before participating in events where they were allegedly forced to engage in sexual acts.
Investigators said victims were regularly abused and were unaware of the nature of the events or sexual acts they would be required to participate in.
The scale of the alleged criminal operation, orchestrated by Jeffries and Smith, is evidenced by millions of dollars spent to maintain its operations between late 2008 and early 2015.
Federal authorities also detailed the presence of “concealed staff” who allegedly made victims sign non-disclosure agreements and ensured mobile phones were banned from locations where sexual acts took place.
Brad Edwards, a lawyer representing several alleged victims, confirmed the arrests.
“These arrests are an important first step in securing justice for the many victims who were abused through this trafficking operation, which operated for many years under the cover of Abercrombie”, he said.
New York authorities have identified 15 victims, whose identities remain protected. The investigation is ongoing, with the FBI encouraging anyone with information to come forward.
Jeffries and Smith were arrested in West Palm Beach, Florida, whilst Jacobson was apprehended in Wisconsin.
The three men are charged with sex trafficking and face federal prosecution. Jeffries and Smith have categorically denied any involvement in the international operation.
The U.S. Department of Justice said the defendants will be transferred to New York in the coming days, with Jeffries and Smith expected to appear before a federal court in West Palm Beach, Florida, whilst Jacobson will face federal court in St. Paul, Minnesota.
(information from protothema.gr)
