In a recent investigation by BBC Panorama, former Abercrombie & Fitch CEO Mike Jeffries and his partner, Matthew Smith, have come under scrutiny for their alleged involvement in a disturbing sex party scandal. The investigation reveals a potentially dark underbelly of the fashion industry, with numerous victims recounting their experiences at the hands of the couple.
According to the BBC, a “highly organized network” was employed to recruit young men, many of whom aspired to become models, to attend parties hosted by Jeffries and Smith. The middleman involved in this network also reportedly took advantage of the young men. While some claimed they participated willingly, eight individuals have made allegations of exploitation and abuse.
Despite the mounting allegations, neither Jeffries nor Smith has responded to the BBC’s request for comment. The severity of the situation has led two former US prosecutors to call for an investigation into potential sex trafficking charges in the United States.
The investigation, which spans two years, uncovered that half of the men who attended these parties were misled about the nature of the events, believing they were opportunities to further their modeling careers. Others were fully aware that the parties had a sexual nature. These events were allegedly held in various locations, including Jeffries’ New York home and hotels around the world.
Men attending these parties were reportedly paid between $500 and $1000, subjected to sexual auditions, and signed non-disclosure agreements. Some even had their body hair shaved as part of the experience. Staff members who worked for the couple were instructed to vacate the Hamptons property every Saturday afternoon.
The accusations against the former Abercrombie & Fitch CEO and his partner have cast a shadow over their past success in the fashion industry, raising important questions about exploitation and consent within the LGBTQ community and the broader fashion world. As the allegations continue to emerge, the public awaits further developments in this disturbing case.