A landlord of residential properties in Peoria is facing allegations of sexually harassing tenants in violation of the Fair Housing Act.
The U.S. Justice Department on Thursday filed a civil lawsuit against Michael J. DeWitte of Washington, claiming he sexually harassed vulnerable female tenants and housing applicants dating back more than 20 years.
“Landlords cannot use their position of power to sexually harass someone who simply wants a place to live,” Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division said in a news release announcing the lawsuit.
“The Fair Housing Act protects tenants’ right to housing free of any kind of sexual advance or harassment. We encourage survivors to speak out so that we can vindicate their fair housing rights.”
The DOJ says DeWitte has managed multiple Peoria rental units since at least 2002. The complaint alleges DeWitte made unwelcome sexual comments, advances and contact, including offering to strip and exposing himself.
The lawsuit also claims he requested sex in exchange for reduced rent or other housing benefits, and evicted tenants when they did not give in to his advances.
“No one should ever be asked to trade their body for a home,” said Gregory K. Harris, U.S. Attorney for the Central District of Illinois, who urged any other tenants subjected to discrimination by DeWitte to contact his office.
“When landlords abuse their power and attempt to take advantage of the vulnerable in violation of civil rights laws, my office and the Justice Department stand ready to hold them accountable.”
The lawsuit is seeking monetary damages to compensate victims of the alleged harassment, as well as civil penalties and a court order barring future discrimination.
The case was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of Illinois. All claims in the complaint will need to be proven in court, with the DOJ seeking a jury trial.
