Kevin Martin, Sexually Harassing Female Tenants, Ohio 2023

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Landlord in Athens, Ohio Accused of Sexually Harassing Female Tenants and Applicants

Kevin Martin, an owner and manager of residential rental properties in and around Athens, Ohio, has agreed to pay $170,000 to resolve a lawsuit alleging that he sexually harassed female tenants and housing applicants in violation of the Fair Housing Act.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Ohio and the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Office of Inspector General (HUD OIG) launched an investigation into Martin’s actions, which began in 2010 and lasted until at least 2020.

According to the lawsuit, Martin requested sex acts from female tenants and applicants, subjected them to unwelcome sexual touching, made unwelcome sexual comments and advances, and demanded that female tenants engage in sex acts with him in order not to lose housing. He also offered to reduce rent or excuse late or unpaid rent in exchange for sex acts.

Martin’s actions allegedly led to the initiation of evictions or threats of eviction against female tenants who objected to or refused his sexual advances.

Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Civil Rights Division stated, “Every person in our country has the right to seek and obtain safe and affordable housing without being subjected to sexual harassment.”

The consent decree that Martin agreed to requires him to pay $165,000 to former female tenants and applicants harmed by his harassment and a $5,000 civil penalty to the United States. He is also permanently barred from managing residential rental properties and must retain a property manager for properties he continues to own.

Victims of sexual harassment in housing can report incidents to the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Civil Rights Tipline at 513 684-2055 or by emailing . Reports may also be made to HUD at 1-800-669-9777 or by filing a complaint online.