Michael Jeffries, the ex-CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch, along with two other defendants, was taken into custody on Tuesday. They are facing allegations connected to an international sex trafficking and prostitution operation that is claimed to have taken advantage of many men.

Federal prosecutors in Brooklyn revealed a 16-count indictment, which includes Jeffries, 80, his partner Matthew Smith, 61, and James Jacobson, 71, who reportedly took part in interviewing and recruiting men for sexual activities with Jeffries and Smith.

All three have been charged with one count of sex trafficking and 15 counts related to interstate prostitution involving 15 unnamed victims. Jeffries led Abercrombie from 1992 until 2014.

The indictment alleges that from 2008 to 2015, the defendants ran an extensive sex trafficking and prostitution business, capitalizing on Jeffries’ substantial wealth and position as CEO of Abercrombie. Numerous men were reportedly compensated by Jeffries and Smith to travel internationally and domestically, including to affluent areas like the Hamptons and New York City, for sexual encounters with them and others. Many victims were misled with promises of modeling gigs.

Highlighted below are five significant allegations from the indictment:

• Jeffries and Smith invested millions into establishing an organization that provided security and logistical support for their global operations. This funding covered the travel expenses and accommodations of the victims.
• Victims and witnesses were compelled to sign non-disclosure agreements to prevent them from sharing information about their experiences or seeking assistance. When witnesses threatened to expose or take legal action, a security firm was allegedly employed to monitor and intimidate them into silence.
• The indictment claims that Jeffries and Smith organized “sex events” where attendees were pressured to use alcohol and drugs.
• Jacobson is accused of recruiting and screening individuals for the events by conducting “tryouts,” during which he would engage in sexual acts with them prior to their invitation. He also allegedly offered payment to men who successfully referred new attendees.
• Victims, including at least one who was just 19 years old, were lured into sexual activities under the pretense of potential modeling opportunities with Abercrombie. Prosecutors assert that victims believed declining invitations to these gatherings could negatively impact their careers.