Legal Competency Hearing Scheduled for Former A&F CEO Facing Sex Trafficking Charges

Lawyers for Mike Jeffries, the former chief of Abercrombie & Fitch, have announced his diagnosis of dementia and Alzheimer's, sparking discussions about his ability to stand trial on serious sex trafficking charges. A competency hearing has been scheduled for June 2025, amidst allegations that Jeffries and his associates exploited vulnerable individuals.

Mike Jeffries, the former CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch (A&F), has been diagnosed with dementia and late onset Alzheimer's disease, according to his legal representation in a recent court filing. This revelation comes as Jeffries faces serious federal sex trafficking charges alongside his partner, Matthew Smith, and middleman James Jacobson, in connection to an alleged international operation that exploited aspiring models.

The 80-year-old Jeffries was arrested in October and has pleaded not guilty to the charges, which include running a prostitution business from 2008 to 2015. Prosecutors allege that he utilized his wealth and influence to "traffic men for his own sexual pleasure," presenting a troubling case of power dynamics and exploitation within the modeling industry.

In light of Jeffries' health issues, his lawyers have called for a competency hearing to assess whether he is mentally fit to proceed to trial. The hearing, scheduled for June 16 and 17, 2025, will determine if Jeffries possesses the mental capacity necessary to assist in his defense. His attorney, Brian Bieber, has cited evaluations from a neuropsychologist indicating that Jeffries is suffering from two types of dementia, which further complicates his mental state and ability to engage rationally with legal proceedings.

The legal troubles facing Jeffries and his associates escalated after an investigation by the BBC emerged last year, detailing claims of sexual exploitation and coercion of young men at various events hosted by the couple. The FBI has since launched a comprehensive investigation into the allegations.

Amidst these criminal charges, Jeffries and A&F are also defending a civil lawsuit that accuses the retailer of financially supporting the alleged sex trafficking operation. In a twist, Jeffries has recently initiated legal action against A&F for failing to cover his criminal defense costs, asserting that the company had previously agreed to indemnify him for claims related to his former position.

Heather Cucolo, a legal expert specializing in mental disability law, explained that if Jeffries is deemed competent, the trial will continue. Conversely, should he be found incompetent without a reasonable chance of regaining competency, it could result in the dismissal of charges against him.

While Jeffries' partners Smith and Jacobson may still face trial, their cases would heavily depend on independent evidence if Jeffries is ultimately ruled unfit to testify. As this case unfolds, the intersection of law, mental health, and accountability remains a focal point of discussion.