Michael Jeffries, former CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch, has been diagnosed with dementia and probable late-onset Alzheimer's disease, his lawyers revealed in a New York court filing. The 80-year-old, currently facing federal sex trafficking charges alongside his partner, is set to undergo a competency hearing to assess his mental fitness for trial.
Ex-Abercrombie CEO's Dementia Diagnosis Complicates Legal Battles
Ex-Abercrombie CEO's Dementia Diagnosis Complicates Legal Battles
Former fashion executive Michael Jeffries' mental health questioned amid trafficking charges.
The legal troubles for Jeffries began when he was arrested in October, accused of operating an international sex trafficking and prostitution ring between 2008 and 2015. Prosecutors claim he utilized his power and wealth to exploit aspiring male models for his and his partner Matthew Smith's sexual gratification. Both men have pleaded not guilty along with their associate, middleman James Jacobson, and are currently out on bond.
According to a report by the BBC, the FBI's investigation, prompted by allegations of sexual exploitation at events hosted by the pair, revealed a disturbing pattern of coercion and fraud used to capture young men for sexual acts. This investigation parallels the recent filing of Jeffries' mental competency request, where his legal team cited numerous examinations leading to the dementia diagnosis.
Attorney Brian Bieber, representing Jeffries, expressed concerns regarding his client's ability to engage with his legal defenses, noting that Jeffries' demeanor during initial meetings starkly contrasted with his previous role as a high-profile executive. The competency hearing is scheduled for June 16 and 17, 2025.
As Jeffries navigates his personal and legal challenges, the fallout continues, including a civil lawsuit aimed at Abercrombie & Fitch for allegedly financing the trafficking operations. This development highlights the complexities of his case, as Jeffries also seeks legal assistance funding from the very brand he once led, asserting that it had previously agreed to indemnify him for claims stemming from his role.
In the face of these serious allegations and declining health, Jeffries' legal team maintains a defensive posture as they prepare for the hearings ahead.
According to a report by the BBC, the FBI's investigation, prompted by allegations of sexual exploitation at events hosted by the pair, revealed a disturbing pattern of coercion and fraud used to capture young men for sexual acts. This investigation parallels the recent filing of Jeffries' mental competency request, where his legal team cited numerous examinations leading to the dementia diagnosis.
Attorney Brian Bieber, representing Jeffries, expressed concerns regarding his client's ability to engage with his legal defenses, noting that Jeffries' demeanor during initial meetings starkly contrasted with his previous role as a high-profile executive. The competency hearing is scheduled for June 16 and 17, 2025.
As Jeffries navigates his personal and legal challenges, the fallout continues, including a civil lawsuit aimed at Abercrombie & Fitch for allegedly financing the trafficking operations. This development highlights the complexities of his case, as Jeffries also seeks legal assistance funding from the very brand he once led, asserting that it had previously agreed to indemnify him for claims stemming from his role.
In the face of these serious allegations and declining health, Jeffries' legal team maintains a defensive posture as they prepare for the hearings ahead.
