Former boss of Abercrombie & Fitch arrested in sex trafficking investigation

The former chief executive of the fashion retailer Abercrombie & Fitch Mike Jeffries has been arrested as part of a criminal sex trafficking investigation, authorities in New York announced yesterday.

- Michael Sainato, Jessica Glenza

Federal prosecutors allege that Jeffries, his British partner Matthew Smith and a third man, Jim Jacobson, ran an "international sex trafficking organisation" that coerced “dozens and dozens” of men into sexual acts, often with the promise of a modelling career with the clothing company.

Jeffries and Smith were expected to appear in court later yesterday.

“Powerful individuals for too long have trafficked and abused, for their own sexual pleasure, young people with few resources and a dream - the dream of securing a successful career in fashion or entertainment,” the US attorney in Brooklyn, Breon Peace, said at a news conference.

“To anyone who thinks they can exploit others by using the so-called casting couch system - this case should serve as a warning,” Peace said. “Prepare to trade that couch for a bed in federal prison.”

Prosecutors said 15 victims came forward to accuse the men of running an international sex trafficking organisation from late 2008 to 2015. Prosecutors said victims were flown around the world to international hotels in London, Italy and St Bart's, among others - and to Jeffries’ homes in New York City and the exclusive Hamptons on Long Island.

Jacobson acted as the recruiter, according to investigators, often forcing men into sexual “tryouts” before bringing them to Smith and Jeffries.