New York: Former Abercrombie & Fitch chief executive Michael Jeffries has been found mentally competent to proceed with his federal sex-trafficking trial. A U.S. district judge ruled that the 82-year-old former executive is now able to understand the case against him and take part in his legal defense.
Jeffries had previously spent several months receiving treatment and undergoing evaluation at a federal medical facility in Butner, North Carolina. His lawyers had raised concerns about his mental health, citing Alzheimer’s disease, Lewy body dementia and the effects of a previous traumatic brain injury.
The court ordered the hospitalization to determine whether Jeffries’ condition had improved enough for him to participate in the criminal proceedings. After roughly four months at the facility, federal officials concluded that he was capable of standing trial.
U.S. District Judge Nusrat Choudhury reviewed medical assessments, expert testimony and other evidence before reaching her decision. She also considered conversations Jeffries had by telephone while he was in custody.
According to the judge, the evidence indicated that Jeffries was able to follow the basic structure of the criminal justice process. He was also found capable of understanding courtroom procedures, the responsibilities of the people involved in the case and important legal concepts.
The ruling came after Jeffries’ defense team had argued that his cognitive problems were serious and would require him to receive continuous care. Medical professionals called by the defense had described his condition as progressive and said they did not expect him to regain competency.
The latest court decision clears the way for the federal case to continue. Jeffries is being prosecuted alongside his partner Matthew Smith and former staffer James Jacobson. The three defendants have entered not-guilty pleas to the federal allegations, which include sex trafficking and interstate prostitution.
Federal prosecutors allege that the defendants used offers of modeling opportunities to attract men and bring them to private gatherings in New York City, the Hamptons and other locations. Prosecutors further claim that some of these events involved drugs and sexual activity.
The allegations against Jeffries have drawn significant attention because of his former position at Abercrombie & Fitch, where he was one of the most recognizable figures in the company’s history.
Jeffries left his position as chief executive in 2014 after more than two decades with the retailer. During his time at the company, he became closely associated with its transformation from a traditional outdoor clothing retailer into a major youth-oriented fashion brand known for its distinctive image and marketing strategy.
The federal criminal case is separate from civil allegations and other claims of sexual misconduct that have emerged publicly in recent years. The criminal charges against Jeffries and his co-defendants remain allegations, and they are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.