Raid of Rentboy.com by Homeland Security Stirs Anger

Tom Hays READ TIME: 1 MIN.

Federal authorities' shutdown of a successful male escort service called Rentboy.com has stirred anger and fear in New York City's gay community.

The site operated for nearly 20 years in an open and racy way, with male escorts paying for ads to attract new customers. But federal prosecutors say what it called escorts were really high-priced prostitutes.

Civil rights advocates and activists have accused federal authorities of having an anti-gay bias. They also have questioned why Rentboy was singled out when other escort websites continue to do business.

Authorities deny targeting a specific population. They say the investigation is ongoing and expected to result in more charges.

Seven people, including Rentboy's chief executive were arrested. He's denied any wrongdoing.


by Tom Hays

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