U.S. Department of Justice Sues Lexington Landlord for Decades-Long Sexual Harassment of Tenants

Lexington – The U.S. Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit against Lexington landlord Joe Johnson for allegedly committing over 40 years of sexual harassment against female tenants. Johnson, who manages approximately 150 rental units in Fayette County, is accused of violating the Fair Housing Act, which safeguards tenants from sexual advances and harassment.

This lawsuit marks the second time in recent weeks that a Lexington landlord has faced federal legal action for similar offenses. In November, the Department of Justice sued another property manager, Adnan Shalash, for sexual harassment violations as well.

The civil complaint against Johnson outlines disturbing allegations, including instances where he reportedly reduced or waived late rent payments in exchange for sexual favors. Female tenants have also described experiences of unwanted physical contact, exposure of genitals, and unwarranted entry into their apartments under the pretense of maintenance work. Additionally, the complaint states that Johnson threatened tenants with eviction if they refused his advances.

Among the numerous allegations, one incident from 2005 describes Johnson inappropriately touching a tenant while she was paying rent, along with his proposition to exchange rent for sexual favors. These actions exemplify a “longstanding pattern or practice of sexual harassment” toward female tenants dating back as far as the 1980s, according to the complaint.

This case is not new to authorities; in 2022, the Lexington-Fayette Human Rights Commission charged Johnson for similar violations under the Fair Housing Act, a case that remains pending in Fayette Circuit Court. The Commission is currently deliberating whether to join the Department of Justice’s lawsuit or continue with their independent case, awaiting direction from federal officials.

Housing advocates have expressed concern that victims of such harassment often remain silent. Many of these tenants are economically disadvantaged or face challenges such as prior evictions or felony convictions, which limit their housing options and increase fear of retaliation from landlords.

The Department of Justice is seeking unspecified monetary damages as well as civil penalties against Johnson. This lawsuit has now been filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky, shedding light on the critical issue of tenant rights and harassment in housing.