Former Abercrombie & Fitch CEO Mike Jeffries was arrested Tuesday as part of a federal investigation into allegations of sexual exploitation and trafficking. According to announcements from federal prosecutors, the FBI in Brooklyn, and the New York police department, Jeffries, along with his British partner Matthew Smith and associate Jim Jacobson, are accused of operating an “international sex trafficking organization.”

During a press conference, U.S. Attorney Breon Peace highlighted the gravity of the charges, stating, “Powerful individuals have long trafficked and abused young people who, often with few resources, chase the dream of a successful career in fashion or entertainment.” He warned that those who exploit others through manipulative practices—often referred to as the “casting couch”—should be prepared to face serious consequences, indicating, “This case should serve as a warning. Prepare to trade that couch for a bed in federal prison.”

Reports indicate that 15 victims have come forward to allege that from late 2008 to 2015, the accused trafficked men internationally and coerced them into sexual acts, often under the pretense of offering modeling opportunities with Abercrombie. Victims were reportedly flown to various hotels around the world, including those in London, Italy, and St. Bart’s, as well as to Jeffries’ residences in both New York City and the affluent Hamptons.

Investigators claim that Jacobson played a key role as the recruiter, subjecting potential models to sexual “tryouts” before referring them to Jeffries and Smith. It’s alleged that the pair selected individuals for sex parties and sometimes compelled them to consume alcohol or take drugs such as Viagra or substances known as “poppers.” Disturbingly, there are accounts of Jeffries and Smith forcibly injecting men with an “erection-inducing substance.”

Prosecutors revealed that millions were reportedly spent on this illicit operation, covering Jacobson’s salary, staffing for sex parties, hotel rentals, and travel expenses. Peace stated, “During that time, the defendants recruited dozens of men and transported them globally,” emphasizing the extensive resources allocated for secrecy and support of these activities.

This indictment follows a 2023 BBC investigation, where eight men reported being exploited by Jeffries, prompting federal prosecutors to launch an inquiry in January 2024 after a civil lawsuit was filed by several victims. One plaintiff, David Bradberry, alleged that Jeffries pressured models into drug use and sexual acts for a chance to appear in Abercrombie catalogs, while the company allegedly paid off individuals who accused Jeffries of sexual misconduct.

Jeffries led Abercrombie from 1992 until 2014, transforming it into a widely recognized brand but later resigned amid criticism of its failure to adapt to changing consumer preferences. Bradberry’s attorney, Brad Edwards, pointed out, “As we laid out in our lawsuit, this was an Abercrombie-run, sex trafficking organization that permeated throughout the company.”

The criminal charges against Jeffries, Smith, and Jacobson echo earlier civil allegations, included claims of exploitation and drugging of young men in various cities between 2009 and 2015. Jeffries and Smith have vehemently denied all allegations in court filings.

Jeffries was released on a $10 million bond, while Jacobson was granted a $500,000 bond. Smith remains in custody, with an arraignment set for Friday. Peace encouraged any potential victims or individuals with information about the case to reach out to the FBI.

This case is one of several recent high-profile sex trafficking prosecutions pursued by federal authorities in New York City, joining the ranks of cases against figures such as Sean Combs and the late Jeffrey Epstein. Resources and support for those affected by sexual abuse can be found through organizations like Rainn in the U.S. at 800-656-4673.