Ex-CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch 'vehemently denies' sex trafficking allegations

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Sex Trafficking Lawsuit: Abercrombie & Fitch, Ex-CEO Mike Jeffries, and Partner Seek Dismissal

Legal Battle Unfolds

Abercrombie & Fitch, along with its former CEO Mike Jeffries and partner Matthew Smith, are embroiled in a legal dispute as they petition a court to dismiss a sex trafficking lawsuit. The lawsuit, filed in the Southern District of New York last October, accuses Jeffries of running a "criminal enterprise" and alleges that the company funded his purported sex trafficking venture over two decades.

Statute of Limitations and Meritless Claims

Mike Jeffries vehemently denies the allegations, arguing that they fall outside the statute of limitations and are "meritless." His legal team emphasizes the need for the court to address the alleged legal deficiencies in the complaint, urging a dismissal of the action.

Unfettered Access and Allegations against Jeffries

The lawsuit claims that Abercrombie & Fitch granted Jeffries "unfettered access" to corporate resources, including a jet, transportation, and unlimited cash, facilitating the alleged sex trafficking venture during his tenure as CEO. The company, however, contends that the lawsuit fails to demonstrate its knowledge of the purported exploitation and asserts it cannot be held liable.

Background: BBC Investigation and International Allegations

The legal complaint originated after a BBC investigation revealed allegations against Jeffries and Smith, accusing them of exploiting men for sex at events held globally, spanning locations like New York, London, and Marrakesh.

Strong Denials from Jeffries and Smith

In response to the legal claim, documents submitted by Jeffries' lawyers emphasize his vehement denial of every allegation. The defense urges the court to look beyond a sensationalized narrative and address legal deficiencies in the complaint that warrant dismissal. Matthew Smith similarly seeks dismissal, citing the alleged events as time-barred since 2011 and emphasizing the lack of specific, factual occurrences in the claim against him.

Abercrombie & Fitch's Defense

A&F's separate response underscores its lack of knowledge regarding the "supposed trafficking venture" and disputes any awareness of the alleged sexual misconduct. The company argues that, until the BBC's reporting in October 2023, there was no public information about the allegations against Jeffries. While condemning sexual abuse, A&F maintains that the lawsuit lacks plausible allegations connecting the company to the exploitation described by the plaintiff.

FBI Investigation Unfolds

Beyond the civil lawsuit, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has initiated an investigation. FBI agents are reportedly interviewing witnesses and issuing subpoenas, adding a criminal dimension to the unfolding legal saga.

Legacy of Mike Jeffries and Ongoing Developments

Mike Jeffries, often regarded as the modern-day founder of A&F, transformed the brand in the 1990s. His departure in 2014, amid declining sales, included a substantial retirement package, part of which has now been suspended by the company amidst the legal turmoil. The situation continues to evolve as the legal battle and FBI investigation progress.