Abercrombie & Fitch’s Mike Jeffries Linked to Jeffrey Epstein: Troubling Connections Revealed

Abercrombie & Fitch’s former CEO, Mike Jeffries, has found himself in hot water due to shocking allegations linking him to Jeffrey Epstein, the notorious financier and convicted sex offender. New revelations indicate that Jeffries and his partner, Matt Smith, are accused of exploiting male models for sexual purposes between 2008 and 2015.

The scandal began to unravel after Jeffries’ recent arrest in October, following a lawsuit that alleged he had taken advantage of aspiring models. Jeffries, who was chosen to helm Abercrombie & Fitch by billionaire Les Wexner in 1992, had a significant connection to Epstein, who served as Wexner’s financial advisor for many years. Wexner’s ties to Epstein, who was found dead in his jail cell in 2019, are well-documented, with reports suggesting that Epstein managed Wexner’s properties and finances.

While Epstein was known for his network of powerful friends, Wexner has distanced himself since the revelation of Epstein’s crimes, claiming ignorance of any wrongdoing related to the late pedophile. Now, however, another of Wexner’s associates faces serious allegations of sexual exploitation.

According to prosecutors, Jeffries, Smith, and another individual named Jim Jacobson were part of a scheme that involved pressuring male models into sexual acts under the guise of modeling opportunities. The indictment details how Jacobson allegedly traveled across the country and internationally to recruit these vulnerable young men, with promises of casting opportunities that were merely a front for sexual exploitation.

The indictment paints a grim picture: Jeffries and Smith reportedly had sexual encounters with models for years, taking full advantage of their positions. Victims were allegedly coerced into attending sexual gatherings after complying with Jacobson’s demands. The trio is said to have operated a “referral system,” incentivizing models to bring in more potential victims, all while misleading them about the nature of the meetings.

As the investigation progressed, more shocking details emerged. The indictment describes how models were ordered to wear costumes and engage in sexual acts that were premeditated and often coerced, including the administration of substances to enhance their performance beyond their natural capabilities. Prosecutors assert that Jeffries issued threats to ruin the modeling careers of those who resisted his advances.

The legal proceedings against Jeffries and his associates gained momentum after multiple victims came forward in 2023, seeking justice for the alleged abuses they endured. Attorney Brittany Henderson, representing several of the accusers, hailed the arrests as a significant step forward for justice and has indicated a commitment to holding Abercrombie & Fitch accountable for enabling such behavior.

In response to the scrutiny, Jeffries and Smith have denied any wrongdoing, while Abercrombie & Fitch claims to be investigating the serious allegations surrounding its former leader. This unfolding saga comes on the heels of renewed criticism aimed at Jeffries and Abercrombie & Fitch, particularly after the release of a Netflix documentary that dissected the brand’s controversial culture during Jeffries’ tenure. As the legal battles continue, the fashion industry awaits the outcome of what could be a landmark case involving exploitation and abuse.