Pennsylvania Landlord Sued for Sexual Harassment

Every United States citizen has the right to live in a safe, private home without being harassed or discriminated against. Unfortunately, many landlords violate these laws in places like Pennsylvania. The good news is that if tenants are sexually harassed by their landlords, they can hold them accountable and sue them. While this doesn’t negate the trauma, stress, and shame of being sexually harassed, it does ensure that guilty parties experience consequences for their misconduct. Justice was served in this manner thanks to a recent case involving a landlord in Pennsylvania who had been sexually harassing their tenants.

If you have experienced sexual harassment in Pennsylvania, you have every right to take legal action. It doesn’t matter where the abuse took place. Whether you have been harassed at the workplace, at your school, or at your home, you can always hold guilty parties accountable. Work with a qualified attorney who specializes in sexual harassment lawsuits, and you can hold guilty parties accountable. This can deter future instances of sexual harassment, and you can play a role in protecting tenants in Pennsylvania from future abuse.

Landlord Ordered to Pay $13,000 to Victim

On September 3rd, the Department of Justice reported that it had reached an agreement to resolve a lawsuit between two landlords and a tenant in Pennsylvania. Allen and Heidi Woodcock were sued for both sexual harassment and retaliation. Allen was accused of sexually harassing the female tenant in 2019. He allegedly entered the home to conduct maintenance before sexually touching the tenant and trying to kiss her without consent. When the tenant reported this harassment to Heidi Woodcock, the couple decided to evict her. This is a clear example of retaliation, which is not allowed in Pennsylvania.

Along with being ordered to pay the victim $13,000 in damages, Allen Woodcock was banned from every participating in the rental or management of residential properties ever again.

The Fair Housing Act

This swift decision was made possible by the Fair Housing Act, which bans landlords from discriminating against tenants based on sex (among other things). Sexual harassment is considered a form of gender-based harassment, and that is why tenants are able to sue their landlords with relative ease after experiencing this type of treatment. The Fair Housing Act is enforced by the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. The Justice Department also runs the Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative.

Enlist the Help of a Qualified Attorney Today

If you have been searching the Pennsylvania area for a qualified, experienced attorney who specializes in sexual harassment lawsuits, there are plenty of options available. These legal professionals are committed to helping victims of harassment in the Keystone State, and they can make sure that justice is served. Not only can you ensure that abusers experience legal consequences, but you can also receive a considerable settlement for your damages. This can provide you with a sense of closure.