Rianna Croxford, a BBC Investigations correspondent, discusses her groundbreaking work uncovering serious allegations against former Abercrombie & Fitch CEO Michael Jeffries. She details how Jeffries has been accused of exploiting aspiring male models through coercive tactics. The conversation delves into the disturbing power dynamics within the fashion industry and the challenging process of gathering evidence. Croxford also shares her experiences navigating this intricate investigation, shedding light on the broader societal implications.
The podcast highlights the disturbing allegations against ex-CEO Michael Jeffries, detailing his exploitative practices involving vulnerable male models over several years.
It emphasizes the role of investigative journalism in uncovering systemic abuses in the fashion industry, showcasing the urgent need for accountability.
Deep dives
Allegations Against Mike Jeffries
Mike Jeffries, the former CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch, faces serious allegations of running an international sex trafficking and prostitution operation, reportedly involving vulnerable young male models. Prosecutors allege that he and his associates used force, fraud, and coercion to engage these young men in exploitative and violent sexual acts during events held from 2008 to 2015. The charges include one count of sex trafficking and 15 counts of interstate prostitution, with the potential for a life sentence if convicted. Prosecutors believe that while about 15 victims have been identified, many more may exist, urging anyone with information to come forward.
The Culture and Influence of Abercrombie & Fitch
Abercrombie & Fitch, once a quintessential all-American lifestyle brand, became a millennial favorite under Jeffries, known for its provocative marketing tactics and appeal to young consumers. Jeffries transformed the company from a heritage outfitter into a fashion powerhouse by utilizing shirtless male models in advertisements and creating a sensory shopping experience with loud music and signature fragrances. During its peak, Abercrombie had around a thousand stores globally and attracted long lines of young consumers eager for a glimpse of its provocative brand ambassadors. This unique cultural presence, however, overshadowed allegations of a darker reality within the company, particularly regarding the treatment of young male models.
Revealing the Story Behind the Scandal
The investigation into Jeffries and his associates was sparked by a social media post that questioned the silence around male abuse in the fashion industry. Journalist Rihanna Croxford's inquiry began by reaching out to former male models and uncovering personal accounts of coerced sexual encounters under the guise of modeling opportunities. As evidence, including itineraries and testimonies, began to surface, the sheer scale of the alleged operation became apparent, revealing a network of recruiters and a lavish lifestyle funded by an intricate system designed to maintain secrecy. The gravity of this investigation has since prompted legal actions against Jeffries, and it showcases the urgent need to address abuses of power within influential industries.
Inside a BBC investigation that exposed the allegations against Michael Jeffries. The former fashion boss has pleaded not guilty to charges of sex trafficking and prostitution. Jeffries – who turned Abercrombie and Fitch into one of the world’s biggest clothing brands – was arrested along with his life partner and their fixer, and accused of exploiting aspiring male models through force, fraud and coercion.
On this episode, Lucy Hockings speaks to BBC Investigations Correspondent Rianna Croxford, who has spent three years investigating the claims against Jeffries.
WARNING: This episode includes details of alleged sexual abuse.
Producers: Peter Goffin and Eleanor Sly
Sound engineer: Ben Andrews and Gareth Jones
Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas
Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode