Abercrombie & Fitch Ex-CEO Faces Legal Turmoil Amid Dementia Diagnosis
Mike Jeffries, the former CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch, finds himself at the center of legal and medical scrutiny. The 80-year-old, known for leading the iconic clothing brand for over two decades, is facing federal charges of sex trafficking and interstate prostitution. His legal team has revealed that Jeffries suffers from dementia and late-onset Alzheimer’s disease, raising questions about his ability to stand trial.
The charges against Jeffries are grave, alleging his involvement in a sophisticated international sex trafficking operation between 2008 and 2015. Prosecutors claim that Jeffries, along with his partner Matthew Smith and a middleman, coerced aspiring models into exploitative situations, often using fraudulent promises and force. These individuals were reportedly lured into events under the guise of professional opportunities, only to find themselves subjected to disturbing experiences.
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Adding to the complexity of the case, Jeffries’ legal representatives argue that his cognitive decline renders him incapable of assisting in his defense. A neuropsychological evaluation has reportedly confirmed that Jeffries suffers from multiple forms of dementia, including probable late-onset Alzheimer’s and Lewy body dementia. His lawyer described him as far removed from the sharp executive who once helmed a major publicly traded company.
The court has scheduled a competency hearing for June 2025 to determine if Jeffries can stand trial. If deemed incompetent and unlikely to recover, the charges against him could be dropped. This decision, however, would not absolve his co-defendants, who could still face trial based on independent evidence.
This legal saga has also reignited scrutiny on Abercrombie & Fitch, which is defending itself against allegations of enabling a culture of exploitation during Jeffries' tenure. The revelations have cast a long shadow over a brand once celebrated for its aspirational image.
As the court prepares to assess Jeffries' mental fitness, this case continues to highlight the intersection of legal accountability and health-related complexities in high-profile trials. Whatever the outcome, the allegations mark a troubling chapter in the legacy of a retail icon.
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