How to get past i cloud on an iphone?

Ok so i bought an iphone on craigslist, how do i get past the i cloud lock screen when trying to set up the phone? Can i call apple and let them know oh will they not help me? The owner does not know the icloud password.

Apple will not help you, the original owner entering the ID is the only way as its a security feature built into iphones. The owner can reset it online if they forgot it, and then can remotely wipe it too, but obviously they will have to do it (which if its stolen and they are lieing to you, then you are hosed).