Former Abercrombie & Fitch CEO Mike Jeffries, along with his partner Matt Smith and a third man named Jim Jacobson, was arrested on Tuesday following a federal investigation into an alleged sex trafficking ring, according to the FBI and federal prosecutors.
The trio is accused of running a global operation that exploited more than a dozen young men for sex, under the guise of elaborate parties held both in the U.S. and abroad.
The 16-count indictment claims that Jeffries and his accomplices utilized their significant financial resources and Jeffries’ position of power to recruit men for these so-called “sex events,” with Jacobson allegedly serving as a key recruiter.
Jacobson reportedly traveled internationally to interview potential participants, subjecting them to “tryouts” that required sexual acts with him.
Prosecutors believe that this trafficking operation lasted for at least seven years, beginning in 2008, and included 15 identified victims. However, authorities suspect that there may be more victims yet to come forward.
The indictment accuses the group of using a network of employees, contractors, and security personnel to ensure the secrecy of their illegal activities. Federal authorities have urged any additional victims to contact law enforcement.
