Internet prostitution ring uncovered

CHICAGO, Dec. 22 (UPI) -- Chicago-area authorities have arrested four men for allegedly running a prostitution ring on the Internet using underage call girls.

Cook Country Sheriff Thomas Dart said the arrests are part of a three-month investigation of "erotic services" posted on the computer network Craigslist, the Chicago Tribune reported Saturday.

The alleged Illinois and Indiana operation employed at least 11 woman, including high school freshmen and sophomores.

"If you're looking for exploitation at its absolute worst, this is it," Dart said.

Terrence Greenlee Jr., Edward Wells and Rodney Williams of Chicago, and Gregory Key of Evergreen Park stand accused of operating a prostitution ring. They face 30 years in prison if convicted.

Dart said this is the third prostitution ring uncovered this year that used Craigslist to advertise.

"The erotic services link on Craigslist provides a free advertising network for prostitutes and pimps, and it's unrealistic for us to believe company officials are unaware of these ads," Dart said.

Jim Buckmaster, chief executive officer for Craigslist, said in a statement the company does not encourage such ads.

"We go to great lengths to prevent such activity from occurring, and to remove it promptly (from listings) when it does occur," Buckmaster said.