The Dark Web Connecting Abercrombie, Diddy and Weinstein in Sexual Abuse Scandals, abercrombie, Sean Diddy, sexual assault, rape, scandal, Harvey Weinstein, crime, controversies

Mike Jeffries, the former CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch, has been arrested in connection with an international sex-trafficking ring involving male models. Jeffries, along with partner Matthew Smith and associate James Jacobson, allegedly orchestrated a global operation to treat men for sex parties. The trio have been accused of using coercion, fraud and force to groom aspiring male models and lure them to attend these events.

Prosecutors have alleged that Jeffries and Smith used their wealth and influence to take advantage of vulnerable men under the guise of providing modeling opportunities. The investigation, titled “The Abercrombie Guys: The Dark Side of Cool”, was broadcast on the BBC in 2023 and featured numerous men revealing their experiences of signing non-disclosure agreements for sexual events arranged by Jeffries.

The former CEO was released on a $10 million bond, while Jacobson was granted a $500,000 bond. However, Smith was denied bail due to concerns that he was a flight risk.

A ‘Casting Couch’ Ploy

In the case of former Abercrombie & Fitch CEO Mike Jeffries, this concept took a particularly insidious form. Jeffries, along with partner Matthew Smith and alleged recruiter James Jacobson, is accused of running a couch casting operation targeting young and aspiring male models.

The trio reportedly recruited these men under the pretext of offering them potential modeling opportunities with the well-known fashion brand. Jacobson acted as an intermediary, persuading these men to attend private parties that were framed as professional networking or casting events. However, the real purpose was to sexually exploit men. According to court documents, many victims were unaware of the sexual nature of these meetings until it was too late. They were often forced to participate in sexual acts under duress, with the promise that these acts could lead to future modeling gigs.

Presumed use of Viagra and drugs

One of the most alarming aspects of the allegations against Jeffries and Smith is the claim that some victims were given drugs, including Viagra, without their full consent. Prosecutors revealed that at several parties hosted by Jeffries and Smith, the men were given Viagra to enhance sexual performance, as well as muscle relaxants to impair their stamina. These drugs were reportedly used as tools of control, ensuring that victims were more compliant during sexual encounters.

Some victims have come forward describing how they were injected with what was said to be liquid Viagra, often without fully understanding what they were being given. This was done to increase the sexual gratification of Jeffries and Smith, violating the bodily autonomy of the victims. In some cases, men who were unable to give consent due to the effects of these drugs were still subjected to invasive and violent sexual acts. This chilling detail of drug use adds another layer of coercion and abuse to an already disturbing scandal.

James Jacobson, the alleged recruiter, was instrumental in attracting these men. Jacobson reportedly promised victims a lucrative modeling career and arranged meetings under the false pretense of career opportunities. The victims were also forced to sign confidentiality agreements, which prevented them from speaking. Several of the men have since revealed that they feared financial penalties or, worse, if they violated those agreements.

Global operation and millions spent to maintain secrecy

Jeffries, Smith and Jacobson are accused of spending millions of dollars to build and maintain a sophisticated infrastructure for their sex-trafficking operation. Prosecutors allege they went to great lengths to ensure secrecy, with international travel and elaborate arrangements to conceal their activities.

Following the 2023 BBC investigation, additional victims came forward to allege that Jeffries and Smith were involved in sex trafficking and rape. A civil lawsuit filed in New York by Brad Edwards, an attorney representing several victims, claims that Abercrombie & Fitch played a role in facilitating these actions during Jeffries’ time as CEO. The lawsuit also alleges that the company provided financial support for the sex-trafficking operation.

Answer from Abercrombie & Fitch

Abercrombie & Fitch has made it clear that it does not condone Jeffries’ actions, expressing shock and disgust at the allegations. The company reiterated its commitment to a zero-tolerance policy against any form of abuse or harassment and has launched an independent investigation into Jeffries’ alleged misconduct, although it has not provided a timeline for when the information will be shared publicly. results

These allegations have significantly tarnished the reputation of Abercrombie & Fitch, a brand that flourished under Jeffries’ leadership. After leaving the company in 2014 with a $25 million severance package, Jeffries was one of America’s highest-paid CEOs. However, his time at the helm was marred by multiple controversies, including claims of discriminatory hiring practices and a toxic work environment.

The recent arrests of Jeffries, Smith and Jacobson have been seen as a crucial step in getting justice for the victims of this alleged sex-trafficking operation. Brittany Henderson, a lawyer representing some of the victims, said the arrests represent a significant milestone for aspiring male models who were exploited by these people.

As investigations continue, prosecutors indicate that the scope of Jeffries’ alleged wrongdoing may be much greater than initially believed. Although at least 15 victims have been acknowledged, authorities suspect many more. US Attorney Breon Peace has encouraged more victims or witnesses to come forward, noting that the investigation remains active.

Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs: A wave of allegations

Recently, rapper Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs has come under fire due to a deluge of accusations from more than 120 people, including minors, alleging sexual abuse over three decades. Notably, R&B singer Cassie Ventura filed a lawsuit in 2023 that described years of physical, emotional and sexual abuse throughout her relationship with Combs.

Cassie’s legal action alleges a disturbing pattern of coercive behavior, highlighting instances where she was allegedly forced to have sexual encounters with other men as part of her relationship with Diddy. Her allegations also paint a picture of control and manipulation, including physical violence and threats designed to maintain control over her personal life.

In the wake of these allegations, numerous other victims have come forward, detailing similar experiences of abuse and misconduct linked to Combs. Although Diddy has publicly denied these allegations, the overwhelming volume of testimony raises critical concerns about the exploitative power dynamics prevalent in the industry.

Harvey Weinstein: The face of the #MeToo movement

Former Hollywood mogul Harvey Weinstein has become a symbol of the #MeToo movement, which represents the widespread problem of sexual abuse in the entertainment industry. A 2017 exposé by The New York Times brought to light numerous allegations of sexual harassment and assault against him, prompting a slew of similar accusations from women in Hollywood and beyond.

Weinstein was convicted in 2020 on rape and sexual assault charges, resulting in a 23-year prison sentence. However, his legal troubles continue as he faces retrials on additional sexual assault charges, including new allegations that he assaulted a woman in a Manhattan hotel in 2006. Despite the mounting evidence against him, Weinstein has consistently asserted his innocence, stating that the meetings were consensual.

The scandal surrounding Weinstein not only marked his downfall, but also ignited a larger movement, allowing many victims to share their stories of abuse and harassment. The #MeToo movement gained momentum as women from various walks of life began to speak out, calling for accountability and systemic reform.