Ex-Abercrombie CEO Michael Jeffries Faces Federal Sex Trafficking Charges Amid Dementia Claims
December 24, 2024A competency hearing has been scheduled for June 2024 to evaluate Jeffries' mental state and determine his ability to participate in the legal proceedings.
Jeffries' legal team has filed motions to assess his competency based on evaluations from a neuropsychologist, which indicated significant cognitive impairments.
The allegations against Jeffries and his associates gained traction following a BBC investigation that uncovered testimonies from men who claimed to have been exploited at the events.
In addition to the criminal charges, a civil lawsuit has been filed against Jeffries, Smith, and Abercrombie & Fitch, alleging that the retailer funded the trafficking operation.
Jeffries, who served as CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch from 1992 to 2014, has a history of controversy, including previous allegations of discrimination during his tenure.
Amid these legal troubles, Jeffries has also sued Abercrombie & Fitch for not covering his criminal defense costs, claiming the company had agreed to indemnify him.
According to the indictment, between 2008 and 2015, at least 15 individuals were allegedly coerced into participating in sex parties held in various locations, including New York City and international destinations such as England and Morocco.
Recent court filings reveal that Jeffries has been diagnosed with dementia, raising concerns about his competency to stand trial and his ability to assist in his defense.
Michael Jeffries, the former CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch, was arrested in October 2023 alongside his partner Matthew Smith and associate James Jacobson, facing federal charges of sex trafficking and interstate prostitution.
The federal indictment alleges that Jeffries, Smith, and Jacobson operated an international sex trafficking business from 2008 to 2015, coercing young men into sexual acts under the pretense of modeling opportunities.
Prosecutors claim that Jeffries used his wealth and influence to maintain a secretive operation that fulfilled his sexual desires while attempting to protect his public image.
The accused reportedly employed a security company to conduct background checks and intimidate potential whistleblowers, further complicating the investigation.
Summary based on 7 sources
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Sources
BBC News • Dec 24, 2024
Abercrombie & Fitch: Former CEO has dementia, lawyers sayABC News • Dec 24, 2024
Lawyers say dementia may leave ex-Abercrombie CEO incompetent to face sex charges