In a long-awaited development, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has announced a $200 million compensation fund for survivors of human trafficking who were victimized through the now-defunct website Backpage.com. This marks a significant milestone for victims seeking both justice and support after enduring horrific exploitation facilitated by one of the internet's most infamous platforms for sex trafficking.
A Path Toward Accountability
Backpage.com, once a major classified advertising site, was seized and shut down by federal authorities in 2018. The site had become widely known for hosting adult ads that traffickers used to exploit women and minors. The DOJ’s investigation and subsequent prosecution revealed that Backpage’s owners knowingly allowed—and profited from—illegal trafficking activity.
Now, after years of litigation, a victim compensation fund has been established using Backpage's profits to offer financial restitution to those trafficked through Backpage.com.
Who Is Eligible?
The DOJ has outlined eligibility for the new victim compensation program:
- Individuals who were trafficked through ads posted on Backpage.com between January 1, 2004 and April 6, 2018, and who incurred financial losses related to their trafficking may be eligible for remission.
- Legal representatives or estates of deceased victims that meet the above criteria.
Importantly, applicants do not need to have participated in criminal cases to qualify. Survivors are encouraged to submit a Petition for Remission Form and apply.
"Backpage used its position as the leading commercial sex advertisement website to make millions of dollars through their corrupt and heinous peddling of people,” said US Attorney Timothy Courchaine for the District of Arizona. “
Horowitz Law Is Here to Help
At Horowitz Law, we have represented numerous survivors of human trafficking, sexual abuse, and exploitation. We know how emotionally complex and legally overwhelming these cases can be. If you or someone you love was trafficked through Backpage.com, you may be entitled to compensation — and you do not have to go through this process alone. The deadline to file a petition for remission is February 2, 2026.
Contact Horowitz Law today at 888-283-9922 or email adam@adamhorowitzlaw.com immediately for a free and confidential consultation about the remission process—including eligibility requirements, updates, and frequently asked questions—and discuss your legal options today.
Our legal team is available to:
👉 Help determine your eligibility
👉 Assist in completing and submitting the Petition for Remission
👉 Guide you through any related legal steps
Your voice matters, and so does your healing.