What's New Defense attorneys for former Abercrombie & Fitch CEO Michael Jeffries have requested a competency hearing, citing concerns that he may have dementia, which could affect his ability to stand trial on sex-related charges. Jeffries' attorneys revealed in unsealed federal court filings in Central Islip, Long Island, that an October evaluation by a neuropsychologist suggested Jeffries likely suffers from dementia with behavioral disturbance, Alzheimer's disease and Lewy body dementia. Why It Matters In October, Jeffries was arrested by authorities in Florida on charges of sex trafficking-related offenses following a 2023 lawsuit filed by a former model for the brand and fifteen anonymous plaintiffs.
Prosecutors allege that Jeffries, along with his romantic partner and another man, enticed individuals to participate in drug-fueled sex parties in the Hamptons by offering the prospect of modeling opportunities for Abercrombie & Fitch advertising campaigns. Jeffries, 80, remains free on a $10 million bond after pleading not guilty in October to federal charges of sex trafficking and interstate prostitution. What To Know Jeffries' attorneys stated in court filings that the neuropsychologist determined his cognitive impairments—such as memory loss, reduced attention span, slowed processing speed and a tendency to become easily confused—render him unable to effectively assist in his defense.
In a joint letter to the judge, attorneys for both the defense and prosecution pro.
