Adam Vary
Updated on: October 11, 2024 3:28 pm GMT
Mike Jeffries, the former CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch, faces a growing number of allegations regarding sexual exploitation and abuse of young men during events held globally between 2009 and 2015. These claims have emerged following a BBC Panorama investigation that first brought the issue to light last October, revealing troubling allegations surrounding the fashion mogul and his partner, Matthew Smith.
Allegations Surface from Multiple Witnesses
In a recent statement to the BBC, eight additional men have come forward, sharing their experiences related to Jeffries’ involvement in notorious sex events. Witnesses recounted events in cities such as Spain and New York, where some young men were reportedly injected with liquid Viagra. These newly surfaced testimonies add depth to earlier claims, suggesting a systematic method of recruitment for these events.
One individual identified as “Luke,” who was then 20 years old, described his experience when he was lured to an event in Madrid under the pretense of a photoshoot. Contrary to what he expected, he found himself in a hotel suite that eerily resembled an Abercrombie store, complete with assistants dressed in brand uniforms. “It felt like a movie set,” he recalled, describing the dimly lit room adorned with provocative images of male models.
Coercion and Sexual Advances
Luke shared a harrowing account of how he was coerced into participating in sexual acts against his will. He reported that upon entering the suite, he was immediately approached by Jeffries and Smith, both of whom aggressively initiated physical contact. Despite his repeated protests, he described how he was forcibly kissed and subsequently compelled to engage in sexual activity. “I tried to say no repeatedly,” he stated. “But I constantly was saying no, and I wanted to go.”
This alarming trend extends beyond Luke. Witnesses claim that Jeffries and his team engaged in practices where young men attended under the guise of modeling opportunities, only to be faced with sexual coercion. The accounts draw a disturbing picture of an environment where participants were manipulated into submission.
Legal Actions and Investigations
The mounting allegations have led to legal ramifications, with a lawsuit filed against Jeffries, Smith, and Abercrombie & Fitch alleging “international sex trafficking and abuse of prospective models.” Jeffries and Smith have denied all allegations, with their legal teams seeking to dismiss the lawsuit on the grounds that it lacks specificity regarding alleged offenses.
Abercrombie & Fitch has responded by hiring a legal firm to conduct an independent investigation into the claims, emphasizing that the current board of directors was previously unaware of the allegations. The company maintains a strong stance against any form of abuse, harassment, or discrimination.
In the wake of these revelations, the FBI has reportedly opened an investigation and begun interviewing witnesses regarding the claims made against Jeffries and Smith. The federal inquiry highlights the seriousness of the situation and the potential for legal consequences as more testimonies emerge.
Impact on Former Models
The testimonies collected paint a grim picture of the fashion industry, particularly the modeling subculture that young men have often been drawn into. Some former models have disclosed that they felt pressured to comply with the expectations placed upon them by powerful figures within the fashion world, leading to experiences of exploitation.
One of the newer witnesses, identified by the pseudonym “Chris,” shared his story of being injected with what he was told was liquid Viagra. He described feeling dangerously ill afterward, yet was met with indifference from Jeffries and Smith, who allegedly continued to pursue sexual advances despite his condition.
Another individual, Keith Milkie, claimed that assistants of Jeffries bragged about their intimate affiliations and the exploits closely surrounding the former CEO. Such comments, if corroborated, may reveal deeper layers of complicity among those connected to Jeffries and Smith.
Broader Implications for the Fashion Industry
The allegations against Jeffries have provoked discussions about the culture of exploitation within the fashion industry and its impact on young male models. As the world becomes increasingly cognizant of sexual misconduct in various sectors, the fashion industry is now facing scrutiny over its treatment of models, especially those who are vulnerable and seeking opportunities.
Fashion brands are starting to confront these issues, and incidents like those involving Jeffries can lead to a re-evaluation of industry practices, accountability, and protections for young models. The ongoing legal battles and investigations may pave the way for necessary changes in how the industry handles allegations of abuse and exploitation.
Calls for Change
Advocates for models and victims of sexual exploitation are calling for robust reforms within the fashion industry. They emphasize the importance of establishing clear protocols for reporting misconduct, providing support for victims, and ensuring that power dynamics are addressed to prevent similar incidents in the future.
This case serves as a significant reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by individuals within the fashion world. As more men continue to come forward with their experiences, the hope is for a shift towards greater accountability and a safer environment for aspiring models.
Abercrombie & Fitch is facing a lot of attention from the government as things get sorted out. As more people might share their stories and new legal actions could happen, it’s still unclear how these claims will affect Jeffries and the fashion world as a whole.
