Cook County Sheriff Thomas Dart has filed a lawsuit against Craigslist alleging that the site is a place where the solicitation of prostitutes occurs. Dart filed the suit through a private law firm rather than the Illinois Attorney General's office.

Craigslist CEO Jim Buckmaster said, "Frankly, Sheriff Dart’s actions mystify me." According to Buckmaster, the State of Illinois and craigslist have always worked closely together and craigslist counsel has already explained to the sheriff's office that the site isn’t liable for the actions of those who place ads on the site.

Craigslist says that it will vigorously defend itself against the suit and intends to work closely with the sheriff's office and offer any assistance needed. Buckmaster said, “We assist police forces all over the country, including members of Sheriff Dart’s department,” says Buckmaster. “The vast majority seem to understand that craigslist is part of the solution when it comes to combating terrible crimes like human trafficking and child exploitation.”

Via Craigslist