Turn Pain into Power

The Jeffries Scandal: A Story of Power, Betrayal, and Abuse

For over two decades, Mike Jeffries sat at the helm of Abercrombie & Fitch, crafting an image of youthful beauty and success. Behind the glossy ads and exclusive fashion shows, however, Jeffries and his inner circle were allegedly orchestrating a dark and horrifying scheme of exploitation. According to federal prosecutors, from 2008 to 2015, Jeffries, along with his romantic partner Matthew Smith and associate James Jacobson, lured young men with the promise of modeling careers. The reality was far more sinister.

These victims, many store employees and aspiring models, were enticed with the hope of entering the fashion industry. Jeffries’ network dangled glamorous careers, trips to luxury destinations, and lucrative opportunities that never existed. Instead, these men found themselves trapped in a system of coercion, manipulation, and abuse. Victims recount being flown to Jeffries’ homes in the Hamptons and New York City, as well as high-end hotels in England, France, Italy, and Morocco, only to endure horrifying “sex events.”

Once at these events, victims were allegedly drugged, injected with erection-inducing substances, and forced to engage in degrading sexual acts. Some were subjected to forced enemas, humiliating activities involving sex toys, and painful medical injections, all while under the influence of drugs like poppers, alcohol, and Viagra. The indictment describes a world where Jeffries and Smith abused their wealth and influence to prey on vulnerable young men, ensuring secrecy with non-disclosure agreements, security teams, and surveillance.

James Jacobson, Jeffries’ close associate, allegedly played a critical role in the scheme, recruiting and vetting victims. Jacobson would meet with potential targets, engaging in sexual activities to assess their “worthiness” before passing them on to Smith for final approval. Once selected, victims were flown across the world to participate in these abusive sex parties, with no escape from the carefully constructed web of power and secrecy surrounding them.

In October 2023, these stories of abuse came to light in an explosive BBC investigation, giving voice to 12 victims who had been silenced for years. Their bravery in coming forward has since led to federal charges against Jeffries, Smith, and Jacobson, with 15 John Does now accusing the trio of sex trafficking and interstate prostitution. Federal prosecutors suggest that these 15 are only the beginning—dozens more may still be out there, waiting for the right moment to tell their stories.

Jeffries’ arrest in October 2024 sent shockwaves through the fashion world. Once celebrated for transforming Abercrombie into a cultural icon, Jeffries now faces 16 federal charges. As more victims come forward, the true scale of his exploitation is being uncovered.

Abercrombie & Fitch, which distanced itself from Jeffries’ legacy after his departure in 2014, expressed its disgust and condemnation of his alleged actions. The company has since rebranded itself with a focus on inclusion, moving away from the exclusionary ideals Jeffries once championed.

This case isn’t just about Jeffries—it’s about every victim who was betrayed by promises of a better life. If you or someone you know was harmed by Jeffries, your voice matters. Now is the time to stand up, seek justice, and hold those responsible accountable. Merson Law is here to help—confidentially and without judgment.