Massachusetts Man Sued For Sexually Harassing Female Substance Abuse Patients

A Massachusetts man has been sued by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for sexually harassing numerous women in so-called “sober homes.” These women were incredibly vulnerable because they were trying to recover from substance abuse issues. The abuser owns a company called Steps to Solutions, and this company houses women who are trying to get clean. Unfortunately, the women who were trying to pursue sobriety were faced with a new issue: sexual harassment.

If you have been the victim of sexual harassment by a landlord in Massachusetts, a business owner, or any other individual, it’s time to get in touch with a qualified, experienced attorney. These legal professionals can help you sue the person responsible for acts of sexual harassment. If your lawsuit is successful, you can receive a substantial settlement for your damages.

Landlord Guilty of “Despicable Conduct”

Acting US Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell expressed confidence that the Fair Housing Act provides him with all the tools he needs to address “such despicable conduct.” Peter McCarthy is accused of sexually harassing numerous female tenants from 2012 to 2019 while they stayed at “sober homes” run by his company. If successful, a court order will be issued that will prevent McCarthy from harassing women in the future, and victims will also be compensated.

As previously mentioned, the Fair Housing Act forms the basis for this lawsuit. This set of laws clearly states that no tenant can be discriminated against on the basis of their gender, ethnicity, beliefs, and so on. Sexual harassment is considered a form of gender-based discrimination.

What Did these Women Experience?

McCarthy approached women and offered reduced rent, waived security deposits, and other rental benefits in exchange for sex acts and explicit photographs. He also continuously made unwanted sexual comments to these women. Finally, McCarthy retaliated against women who reported him.

It’s important to note that these women only stayed in these “sober homes” for about a month at the very most, since the whole point was to use this environment to get sober and then move on. McCarthy seems to have used this opportunity to harass women in a way that a typical landlord might not have been able to get away with.

In one instance, a woman asked for an overnight pass to spend time with her family. McCarthy implied that he would grant this request if she slept with him, and suggested that their children could have a playdate while they “hooked up” together.

Enlist the Help of a Qualified Attorney Today

Preying upon the most vulnerable members of our population, such as substance abuse patients, is clearly an unforgivable act. It is encouraging to see that justice is being done here, and the guilty party is being sued. If you have experienced sexual harassment, this should encourage you to come forward and seek legal action yourself. There are many qualified, experienced attorneys ready and waiting to assist you. Book your consultation today.