Justice Department accuses landlord in Peoria of sexual harassment of tenants and applicants

A landlord of residential properties in Peoria is accused of sexually harassing tenants and thus violating the Fair Housing Act.

The U.S. Department of Justice filed a civil lawsuit against Michael J. DeWitte of Washington on Thursday, alleging that he sexually harassed vulnerable female tenants and apartment applicants for over 20 years.

“Landlords cannot abuse their position of power to sexually harass someone who is simply looking for a place to stay,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division in a press release announcing the lawsuit.

“The Fair Housing Act protects tenants’ right to housing free from sexual advances or harassment. We encourage victims to speak out so we can defend their right to fair housing.”

According to the Justice Department, DeWitte has managed several rental properties in Peoria since at least 2002. The lawsuit alleges that DeWitte made unwanted sexual comments, advances and physical contact, including offers to undress and expose herself.

The prosecution also alleges that he demanded sex in exchange for a rent reduction or other housing services 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 discriminated against by DeWitte to contact his office.

“When landlords abuse their power and seek to prey on the vulnerable in violation of civil rights laws, my office and the Department of Justice stand ready to hold them accountable.”

The lawsuit seeks financial compensation for the victims of the alleged harassment, as well as a civil penalty and an injunction prohibiting future discrimination.

The case was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of Illinois. All allegations in the complaint must be proven in court, with the Justice Department seeking a jury trial.