Former Abercrombie & Fitch CEO Michael Jeffries Arrested on Sex Trafficking Charges
Michael Jeffries, the former CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch, has been arrested along with two others on charges of sex trafficking and interstate prostitution, according to reports citing U.S. federal prosecutors. While the specific details of the charges remain sealed, the arrests come after years of accusations linking Jeffries to allegations of sexual misconduct.
For years, Jeffries faced civil lawsuits and media reports accusing him of using promises of modeling jobs to coerce individuals into sexual acts. Many of these accusations have surfaced since Jeffries’ departure from Abercrombie & Fitch in 2014. The civil lawsuits claim that during his 22-year tenure with the company, modeling scouts recruited victims for Jeffries, some of whom were allegedly forced into sex trafficking.
Jeffries’ attorney, Brian Bieber, has stated that he will respond to the allegations once the indictment is unsealed, emphasizing that Jeffries’ defense will be made in court, not through the media. Information regarding the legal representation for the other defendants is currently unavailable. A press conference is expected to be held by Brooklyn U.S. Attorney Breon Peace, along with FBI and police officials, later on Tuesday to address the case and provide more information.
Jeffries stepped down from his role at Abercrombie & Fitch in 2014 amidst a backdrop of criticism for the brand’s controversial marketing and declining sales. The latest developments mark a significant turn in the ongoing legal saga surrounding the former retail executive.
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