Transcript of Ex-Abercrombie & Fitch CEO charged with sex trafficking | BBC News

The former boss of the fashion giant Abercrombian Fitch and his British partner have been arrested on charges of running a prostitution and international sex trafficking business following a two-year long BBC investigation. The FBI began looking into the claims that Mike Jeffries and his partner, Matthew Smith, sexually exploited and abused men at events they hosted in their New York residences and hotels around the world. Lawyers for both men and a third man who's been arrested have previously denied any wrongdoing. They'll appear in court on Friday. Rhianna Crosford broke the story that led to the FBI's initial investigation. Here's her report.

Mike Jeffries, the mogul behind a global fashion brand. His vision made billions for Abercrombian Fitch. Drawing in teenagers with provocative ads like these. He stepped down in 2014 after running the company for two decades. He's now facing criminal charges.

To anyone who thinks they can exploit and coerce others by using the so-called casting couch system, this case should serve as a warning. Prepare to trade that couch for a bed in federal prison.

The BBC spent two years investigating allegations of sexual exploitation, unearthing evidence spanning nearly a decade. After we broadcast our report last year, the US authorities began their own investigation. This morning, the FBI arrested the former fashion boss and his British partner in Florida. Several men told the BBC they were abused at events they hosted in major cities around the world.

I think he's a deviant. I think he's a predator. I don't think that's what the public has seen. I was overwhelmed. I've never seen anything like this. What I'd like to talk about is being lied to, tricked, and traded like a commodity.

Evidence gathered by the BBC found there was a highly organized operation involving this middleman, James Jacobson, now also arrested.

In the past few months, I've spoken with more men who attended these events, 20 in total. Some told me they were tricked and abused, others that they were injected with drugs.

A lawyer for Mr. Jeffrey's told the BBC, We will respond in detail to the allegations after the indictment is unsealed and when appropriate, but plan to do so in not the media. Tonight, Mike Jeffries was released on bail. If convicted, he and the others accused could face life in prison. Rhianna Crosford, BBC News.