Property Manager Sued for Sexually Harassing Tenants in Los Angeles

Tenants deserve the right to be free from harassment. Even though they might be living on property that does not belong to them, these individuals should feel safe and secure in their own homes. Unfortunately, many people in positions of power over these tenants use their role to sexually harass innocent people. This is what happened in Los Angeles, when a property manager abused his position of power to sexually harass numerous women over a period dating back to 2006. Fortunately, this individual was later sued.

If you have experienced sexual harassment in the workplace, at your school, or even in your own home, you can sue too. Get in touch with a qualified, experienced attorney who specializes in sexual harassment lawsuits, and you can hold negligent individuals accountable for their unacceptable behavior. With the right legal assistance, you can receive a settlement that compensates you for your damages.

Harassed Female Tenants Receive $100,000 in Damages

On August 6th of 2021, the Justice Department reported that they had settled a lawsuit against a property manager and apartment building owners in California. The lawsuit revolved around the actions of Filomeno Hernandez, a property manager who violated the Fair Housing Act by sexually harassing women over a period of time dating back to 2006.

Also sued were Ramin Akhavan, Bonnie Brae Investments LLC, and Westlake Property Services LLC. These companies took a direct role in the ownership or management of rental properties where these incidents took place. In addition to being sued, Hernandez was prohibited from ever participating in the rental or management of residential properties in the future.

Female Tenants Subjected to Serious Harassment

The lawsuit was originally filed in 2020, and it paints a disturbing picture of what these women had to go through. Hernandez was accused of unwanted sexual touching, sexual assault, unwanted sexual advances, and other acts of misconduct. In addition, Hernandez allegedly offered to reduce rent in exchange for sex. It seems incredible that this individual was allowed to continue this behavior for 14 years before someone finally filed a lawsuit. If you are going through something like this, it’s important to understand that you don’t have to put up with it.

The Fair Housing Act

The Fair Housing Act is a federal set of laws that prevents housing discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, and familial status. These women were protected by the Fair Housing Act because sexual harassment has been interpreted as a form of gender-based discrimination. In addition, the Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative offers further protection for tenants that are experiencing sexual harassment.

Enlist the Help of a Qualified Attorney Today

If you have been searching the California area for a qualified, experienced attorney who can help you with your sexual harassment lawsuit, rest assured that there are plenty of lawyers available. Choose one of these legal professionals, and you can approach this difficult situation in a confident, efficient manner. Book your consultation today.