Columbus, Ohio – A forfeiture of $215 million worth of Backpage.com’s former assets has been announced by the Justice Department, making way for survivors of the sex trafficking site to seek restitution. Cooper Elliott, a Columbus, Ohio-based law firm that specializes in abuse cases, is working together with the Justice Department to raise awareness about this fund so victims of the “online brothel” can get the legal guidance and financial support they deserve. 

“This seizure will be used to establish a restitution trust for survivors of sex trafficking who were directly affected by the site, which was proven to have profited from illegal ads until its forced closure in 2018,” said Abby Chin, an attorney at Cooper Elliott leading the Backpage.com cases. “These ads contributed directly to the sexual exploitation of both children and adults, likely impacting thousands of individuals nationwide. However, we cannot assist them if they are unaware that this newly established fund will soon be available.” 

The site’s closure followed mounting pressure from advocacy groups, survivors, and lawmakers, who highlighted the platform’s role in enabling systemic exploitation. When it was most popular, the site was the largest online platform that was used for purchasing sex, with daily instances of children being trafficked. Finally, in November 2023, the owners and executives of the site were convicted on multiple counts of money laundering and conspiracy due to their involvement in creating the site and subsequently profiting from the platform.  

Cooper Elliott attorneys are sensitive to the delicate needs of abuse victims, respecting privacy and past traumas. The goal is to ensure victims know this fund exists and to help them get the best possible recovery safely and securely. The first step for any victim in Ohio and beyond is to complete a private inquiry form at https://cooperelliott.com/backpage-com-abuse-lawyer/ that allows the attorneys to assess each situation independently and to move forward appropriately. 

“This is one of the first funds of its kind, looking to compensate countless victims who have been physically and emotionally harmed by a criminal scheme like Backpage.com. Let us be there to guide you through this process and to provide financial security for your lifelong healing journey,” said Chin. 

CASE INFORMATION
Central District of California – United States District Court
United States of America v. $1,546,076.35 In Bank Funds Seized from Republic Bank of Arizona Account 1889, et al.
Case No. CV 18-08420