In a Long Island courtroom, former Abercrombie & Fitch CEO, Mike Jeffries, appeared to conceal an ankle monitor under a pulled-up sock.
The 80-year-old was present to contest severe allegations involving the exploitation of young male models. Despite his efforts, the device remained visible, highlighting the gravity of the case.
Jeffries, along with his alleged accomplice James Jacobson, pleaded not guilty to charges of sex trafficking and interstate prostitution.
The indictment also implicated Jeffries’ partner, Matthew Smith, in alleged abuses spanning from 2008 to 2015. Smith, however, was not part of this particular court session.
Allegations of Abuse and Manipulation
The accusations against Jeffries, Jacobson, and Smith are both shocking and detailed. Prosecutors claim that the trio abused 15 young men over several years, allegedly coercing them into participating in degrading acts.
Reports suggest victims were forced to take erection-inducing drugs, undergo genital shaving, and perform other humiliating tasks.
According to the victims, many of them were not homosexual and were pressured into same-sex activities they did not consent to.
Jeffries, who led Abercrombie & Fitch from 1992 to 2014, saw his image tarnished by these allegations, especially after the release of Netflix’s documentary, White Hot, which unveiled claims of misconduct within the company.
International Scandal Unfolds
The indictment suggests the exploitation wasn’t limited to the U.S. The young men, who believed compliance could boost their modeling careers, were allegedly flown to international locations such as New York, France, England, and Morocco to meet with Jeffries and others.
Prosecutors describe the involvement of a firm called the Jeffries Family Office, allegedly tasked with managing and supervising private events.
According to court documents, household staff were instructed to control the gatherings and supply various items, including erectile aids, costumes, and lubricant.
A Culture of Deception and Intimidation
The court documents reveal further disturbing details. Some men were reportedly injected with prescription-grade erection drugs without full knowledge of what would be required of them.
Non-disclosure agreements were also enforced, and all participants were allegedly stripped of their personal items, including clothing and phones, before each event.
Jacobson is said to have traveled both domestically and internationally to scout and evaluate potential recruits for these gatherings.
Under the aliases ‘Jim Jake,’ ‘Mrs. Cook,’ and ‘Todd,’ he is accused of staging “tryouts” and compensating men for sexual activities with him. Allegedly, the true nature of these gatherings was never fully disclosed.
Victims Speak Out
Many of the men believed that attending these events would help them land modeling opportunities with Abercrombie, only to discover the reality was far from professional.
Some of the alleged victims were even given itineraries that resembled standard modeling schedules, yet these concealed the darker nature of the events.
Attempts to silence witnesses through intimidation were also noted. According to a prosecutor’s letter, Jeffries and Smith enlisted a security firm to monitor and threaten individuals who considered going public with their experiences.
Courtroom Drama and Strict Conditions
During the court hearing, the judge laid out strict terms for Jeffries’ house arrest. His ankle monitor limits him to travel solely for legal, medical, and religious purposes, and he must stay within specific regions.
Additionally, Jeffries turned in his passport and is forbidden from contacting co-defendants, victims, or witnesses. A significant bond was discussed, putting pressure on Jeffries’ family if he violates any conditions.
Jacobson’s hearing followed Jeffries’. He appeared visibly shaken, frequently conversing with his attorney and seemingly struggling to hear the judge’s statements.
Like Jeffries, his travel and contact were severely restricted, with additional requirements for a mental health plan.
A Potential Turning Point
The courtroom had a somber atmosphere, with the presence of FBI officials and representatives from the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, underscoring the seriousness of the case.
Jeffries observed the proceedings with occasional glances towards the alleged victims, who appeared polished and model-like—raising questions about how many more victims may yet come forward.
As this high-profile case unfolds, the focus remains on the legal battle ahead, which will determine whether the accusations hold up under scrutiny.
For now, Jeffries and his co-defendants maintain their innocence, as they prepare to confront the charges in full.
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