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Craigslist Sues SC AG to Stop Charges

AG hails it as a win for his state

By Ambreen Ali,  Newser User

Posted May 20, 2009 5:00 PM CDT

(Newser) – Craigslist has filed federal suit against South Carolina’s attorney general to stop him from charging company executives with breaking state prostitution and obscenity laws. AG Henry McMaster called the site’s move a victory, saying “it shows that Craigslist is taking the matter seriously for the first time,” the State reports. “Overnight they have removed the erotic services section.”

That section was swapped out nationwide this week for an “adult services” page monitored by Craigslist staff. McMaster didn't say whether he would move ahead with charges against Craigslist CEO Jim Buckmaster, but he warned he will "continue to monitor the site to make certain that our laws are respected." For his part, Buckmaster said McMaster's repeated legal threats "have left us little choice but to seek declaratory relief before the court."

South Carolina Attorney General Henry McMaster says the Craigslist suit is a victory for his efforts.
South Carolina Attorney General Henry McMaster says the Craigslist suit is a victory for his efforts.   (AP Photo)
Craigslist's Jim Buckmaster, left, says the company filed suit to prevent the executives from being charged with violating prostitution and obscenity laws.
Craigslist's Jim Buckmaster, left, says the company filed suit to prevent the executives from being charged with violating prostitution and obscenity laws.   (AP Photo)
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They are now taking responsibility for the content of their future advertisements. If they keep their word, this is a victory.
- Henry McMaster, South
Carolina attorney general

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COMMENTS
Showing 2 of 2 comments
Mr.C
May 22, 2009 3:10 AM CDT
In this case "pointless issues" include murder. Also the AG makes a set salary and therefore is not wasting any money at all. What in SC needs more attention - I'm sure the AG would follow up on anything more pressing.
TJ
May 21, 2009 2:56 AM CDT
I'm really tired of these small time officials trying to make a big name for themselves by going after pointless issues. There's a lot more going on right now that needs attention. Craigslist is responding to the requests, leave them alone and stop wasting the courts time and money.

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