Sealed memos fought over in federal court week that is last authorities have understood for decades that claims about Backpage had been bogus.
For almost ten years, Backpage was demonized by politicians, denounced in legislatures, and significantly mischaracterized by the press, Hollywood, and activist that is well-funded. As soon as 2010, top prosecutors from 21 states reported the platform that is classified-ad “exploiting ladies and kids.” In 2012 Washington state passed the initial ( not final) law aimed specifically at toppling Backpage, and also by 2015 U.S. senators had been investigating the business.
Although the Department of Justice turn off Backpage.com in 2018, it nevertheless activates strong scorn in some corners. (“they certainly were attempting to sell kids,” the Ca senator and Democratic candidate that is presidential Harris said in March.) Several founders and previous professionals of this business arrested final year on federal fees of conspiracy, facilitating prostitution, and cash laundering are actually waiting for a 2020 test, because they attempt to fight prosecutors desperate to seize their assets and disqualify their attorneys.
“For way too long, Backpage.com existed as…a destination where intercourse traffickers often promoted young ones and grownups alike,” said then–Attorney General Jeff Sessions upon their April 2018 arrest. U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Strange alleged that Backpage made “hundreds of millions” by “placing earnings throughout the wellbeing and security” of victims. keep reading
