Some Landlords Demand Sexual Favors For Rent Deferment: DOJ

CLEVELAND — The Department of Justice is investigating possible sexual harassment by landlords in northern Ohio. U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman is asking anyone who has been victimized to contact his office.

“As a result of the COVID-19 public health crisis, many in our communities have found themselves out of work, furloughed, or otherwise in dire financial straits,” said Herdman. “This has led many to seek abatements or suspensions of their rent or to seek other accommodations during this time."

Herdman noted that while many property owners have been willing to hear out residents experiencing financial hardship, other landlords may be exploiting vulnerable Ohioans.

"While many landlords and housing providers have positively responded with understanding, others have seen an opportunity to exploit the financially vulnerable through demands for sexual favors and other acts of unwelcome sexual misconduct. Please know that the U.S. Attorney’s Office remains ready to investigate complaints of sexual harassment in housing and to deploy all available enforcement tools against anyone who engages in this behavior," Herdman said.

In a recent memo sent to U.S. attorneys around the nation, Attorney General William Barr said there have been reports of landlords demanding sexual favors in return for deferring rent payment. Barr told Herdman and other attorneys around the nation to investigate any landlord accused of sexually harassing behavior.

Herdman's office said they will be working with state and local partners to identify incidents of sexual harassment in housing. He has already penned a letter to housing advocacy groups asking them to report any incidents of misbehavior.

The Department of Justice encourages anyone who has experienced sexual harassment in housing, or knows someone who has, to contact the Civil Rights Division by calling 844-380-6178 or emailing fairhousing@usdoj.gov.

Individuals who believe they may have been victims of discrimination may also contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio at 216-622-3932 or in Toledo at 1-833-938-1375.