Mike Jeffries, the former CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch, has been arrested on charges of sex trafficking and interstate prostitution.

This arrest took place in West Palm Beach, Florida, and it marks a significant development in a case that has spanned years and crossed international borders.

Jeffries isn’t the only one facing these serious allegations. Two associates, Matthew Smith of West Palm Beach and James Jacobson of Wisconsin, were also apprehended in connection with the same charges. The trio is expected to make appearances in federal court in both Florida and Wisconsin today, with formal arraignments scheduled for a later date in the Eastern District of New York.

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According to a federal indictment, Jeffries, alongside Smith and Jacobson, is accused of running what has been described as an “international sex trafficking and prostitution business” from 2008 to 2015.

The indictment paints a disturbing picture, alleging that they orchestrated “sex events” across several locations, including England, France, Italy, Morocco, St. Barts, and New York. These events reportedly catered to Jeffries, Smith, and various associates.

The indictment further claims that coercive, fraudulent, and deceptive tactics were employed to recruit, transport, and pay men to participate in these events. Many of these men were allegedly misled into believing that participation could open doors to modeling opportunities or boost their careers. Conversely, failing to comply with certain demands during these events was suggested to potentially harm their professional prospects.

In a chilling detail, attendees were reportedly required to sign non-disclosure agreements and relinquish their wallets and cell phones during the events. Additionally, Jeffries, Smith, and Jacobson allegedly hired a select group of household staff to oversee and facilitate these gatherings. The staff’s duties included providing alcohol, muscle relaxants known as “poppers,” lubricant, Viagra, and condoms. Payments to the men were allegedly handled by either Jacobson or the staff, according to the indictment.

Jeffries, Smith, and Jacobson face multiple charges, including a single count of sex trafficking and 15 counts of interstate prostitution, connected to 15 alleged victims. The revelations have sent shockwaves through the fashion industry and beyond, as the world watches closely to see how this sensational case unfolds in court.