Former Abercrombie & Fitch CEO Mike Jeffries and James Jacobson pleaded not guilty to sex trafficking and interstate prostitution charges. Jeffries remains on $10 million bond with passport surrendered, while Jacobson is monitored. Smith, Jeffries’ romantic partner, was also arrested. The trio is accused of running an international sex trafficking and prostitution business from 2008 to 2015, targeting vulnerable men with modeling aspirations. The operation used coercive tactics, including drugs and intimidation to silence victims. Jeffries and Smith spent millions on the enterprise, paying staff, buying silence, and providing drugs. Victims were paid with cash. Prosecutors have dozens of witnesses and allege invasive acts by Jeffries and Smith. The operation was exposed through media reports, including a BBC report accusing Jeffries of exploiting men at sex parties. Although Jeffries and Abercrombie & Fitch faced lawsuits during his tenure as CEO, the current allegations have shocked many. The civil suit over the exploitation allegations remains unresolved. Jeffries’ lawyer did not comment on the reports about his personal life but Abercrombie & Fitch distanced themselves from the allegations. Jeffries is known for his controversial leadership at the clothing brand, which saw financial success but also faced accusations of racism and discrimination.
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