Ex-CEO of Abercrombie and Fitch accused of exploiting men for sex

Mike Jeffries, the ex-CEO of clothing brand Abercrombie & Fitch, is facing allegations of exploitation from men who attended sex events around the world, according to a new two-year investigation published by the BBC.

Jeffries and his partner Matthew Smith held a series of these events from 2009 to 2015 in which they exploited young men and allegedly manipulated them into performing sex acts.

Twelve men have come forward as part of the investigation, and half of the men alleged that they were misled about the nature of what they would be asked to do at the events, not believing sex was involved. Others explained they believed it would help their career to participate and hurt it to refuse- and all but one said they felt harmed by the experience.

Jeffries, in his time at A&F for two decades starting in the 1990s, was one of America's highest-paid CEOs who transformed the brand from a failing outfitter into a massively successful teen clothing brand. However, he has long since been a controversial figure: he's faced allegations of discrimination against staff, overspending, and bequeathing a large amount of unofficial influence to his partner, Smith.

A&F, who also owns the Hollister brand, released a statement after the allegations came to light: they were "appalled and disgusted" by Jeffries' alleged behaviour, and that new leadership turned the company into one with "zero tolerance for abuse, harassment or discrimination of any kind."

According to the report, prosecutors are looking to see if accusations of human trafficking will hold up in American courts. Several lawyers who reviewed the findings said there certainly was an argument that the men were coerced and that prosecutors should investigate further into the matter.

For help or advice about rape, sexual assault or domestic abuse, visit the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre website, or call the National 24-hour helpline at 1800 77 8888.