US News
Former Abercrombie & Fitch CEO ruled mentally fit for sex trafficking trial
A federal judge determined Michael Jeffries understands the proceedings against him, clearing the way for an October trial.
The short version
- U.S. District Court Judge Nusrat Choudhury ruled former Abercrombie & Fitch CEO Michael Jeffries is mentally competent to stand trial on sex trafficking and interstate prostitution charges.
- The decision followed a four-month evaluation at a federal prison medical facility after defense attorneys argued Jeffries suffered from progressive dementia and a brain injury.
- Jeffries is scheduled to be tried in late October alongside his partner Matthew Smith and staffer James Jacobson, all of whom have pleaded not guilty.
Key facts
- U.S. District Court Judge Nusrat Choudhury found 82-year-old Michael Jeffries mentally competent, noting he has a rational understanding of legal proceedings and courtroom procedures.[Associated Press · ABC News · The Guardian]
- The competency determination was made after reviewing expert medical testimony, written reports, and hours of recorded phone calls Jeffries made while in custody.[Associated Press · ABC News · The Guardian]
- Defense attorneys had argued Jeffries could not regain competency due to Alzheimer's disease, Lewy body dementia, and a traumatic brain injury, which led to a court-ordered four-month evaluation at a federal prison hospital in Butner, North Carolina.[Associated Press · ABC News · The Guardian]
- Federal prosecutors allege Jeffries, Matthew Smith, and James Jacobson used promises of modeling opportunities to lure men to drug-fueled sex parties.[Associated Press · ABC News · The Guardian]
- Jeffries, Smith, and Jacobson have all pleaded not guilty to federal sex trafficking and interstate prostitution charges.[Associated Press · ABC News · The Guardian]