Men in federal court following Abercrombie & Fitch investigation

RICE LAKE, Wis. (WEAU) – Two men arrested as part of the Abercrombie & Fitch investigation filed a lawsuit in New York federal court on Friday.

According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, attorney Brian Bieber pleaded not guilty on behalf of Michael Jeffries, and attorney Jeremy Schneider pleaded not guilty on behalf of James Jacobson. Both are charged with sex trafficking and 15 counts of interstate prostitution.

Jeffries’ wife and son signed the $10 million bond, which was secured by the defendant’s home in Florida. His release conditions include house arrest, electronic monitoring and no contact with his co-defendants, witnesses or victims.

A $500,000 bond secured from Jacobson’s Rice Lake home was co-signed by two friends who showed up from afar. His release conditions are the same as Jeffries’: house arrest, electronic monitoring and no contact with his co-defendants, witnesses or victims.

Her next court date is December 12, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. before U.S. District Judge Nusrat Choudhury.

Expedited trial time is not included to allow the parties to discuss potential plea negotiations, review discovery, and prepare for trial.

There is still no date set for the arraignment of co-defendant Matthew Smith in New York. On Thursday, Smith agreed to retain the right to apply for bail in the future.

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