The Latest Breaking News from Michael Lacey

What Craigslist and Backpage Can Tell Us About the Meta Settlement

It doesn't matter if you're right. If you don't cave, the government might stop at nothing to destroy you.

Reason · Aug 31

Backpage executives to be sentenced after testifying against site founder about the site's sex ads

Two former executives for the now-shuttered classified site Backpage

The Independent UK · Sep 9, 2025

How Backpage Became MILFS.com

MILFS: Moms I'd Like To Federally Seize?

Reason · Mar 28, 2025

Reason's New Documentary on Backpage.com Is Streaming Exclusively on CiVL

The film ties together years of reporting on a legal saga with broad implications for both free speech and sex work.

Reason · Oct 7, 2024

A History of Harris Positions on Sex Work

Harris' campaign hasn't said where she stands now. But she's historically taken a tough stance against prostitution and especially against men who pay for it.

Reason · Sep 25, 2024

Deplatforming Doesn't Make Sex Work Safer

Another study shows FOSTA failed.

Reason · Sep 4, 2024

Backpage's Michael Lacey Gets 5-Year Sentence

Plus: New York authorities set seized weed on fire, Pavel Durov charged by French authorities, and more...

Reason · Aug 29, 2024

Backpage.com founder Michael Lacey sentenced to 5 years in prison for money laundering

Backpage

The Independent UK · Aug 28, 2024

Feds Seek 20-Year Sentence for Backpage Co-Founder Michael Lacey

It's an insane ask for someone convicted of just one nonviolent offense.

Reason · Aug 21, 2024

Judge Acquits Backpage Co-Founder Michael Lacey on Most Counts

The court found insufficient evidence to sustain 53 of 84 remaining counts against Lacey.

Reason · Apr 25, 2024