Former Abercrombie & Fitch boss Mike Jeffries and his partner Matthew Smith have been arrested amid sex trafficking charges.

The couple and their alleged middleman were arrested this morning (22 October), the BBC reported, with the FBI and prosecutor’s office thought to reveal more details during an upcoming press conference.

Lawyers for Jeffries and Smith have previously denied any allegations by both men.

Speaking to the BBC, Jeffries’ lawyer said: “We will respond in detail to the allegations after the Indictment is unsealed, and when appropriate, but plan to do so in the courthouse – not the media.”

It comes after the FBI launched an investigation last year after the broadcaster made allegations that the couple sexually exploited and abused men during events they held at their New York residences and hotels around the world.

A BBC investigation revealed there was an operation involving a middleman as well as a network of recruiters assigned to recruit men for the events.

A civil lawsuit was subsequently filed in New York accusing the couple of sex-trafficking, rape and sexual assault.

Additionally, the lawsuit accused Abercrombie & Fitch of having funded a sex-trafficking operation led by its ex-chief executive during the two decades he was at the helm.

Edwards Henderson lawyer Brad Edwards, who represents some of the alleged victims, said: “These arrests are a huge first step towards obtaining justice for the many victims who were exploited and abused through this sex-trafficking scheme that operated for many years under the legitimate cover Abercrombie provided.”

While Abercrombie & Fitch said it did not comment on legal matters, in its defence submitted to court, the retailer claimed its current leadership team was “previously unaware of” the accusations until the BBC had reached out.

The US fashion retailer said it “abhors sexual abuse and condemns the alleged conduct” by Jeffries and others.

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