BOSTON – In a shocking case of exploitation, Peter McCarthy, the owner of Steps to Solutions, Inc., a company operating sober homes in Massachusetts, has been accused of subjecting female tenants to sexual harassment and retaliation in violation of the Fair Housing Act.
According to a lawsuit filed by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts and the U.S. Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division, McCarthy allegedly sexually harassed female residents of his sober homes by offering to reduce or forgive rent, granting extra house privileges, or waiving security deposits in exchange for engaging in sexual acts.
The lawsuit, which seeks a court order to prevent future discriminatory conduct, monetary damages to compensate victims of McCarthy’s conduct, and civil penalties, alleges that McCarthy’s actions occurred from at least 2012 through at least 2019.
“It is disappointing that a landlord who is supposed to be helping vulnerable women beat drug addiction was allegedly sexually harassing them and offering to reduce their rent in exchange for sex,” said Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell. “Thankfully, the Fair Housing Act gives us effective tools to stop such despicable conduct and protect those who are being preyed upon.”
The Justice Department’s Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative is led by the Civil Rights Division, in coordination with U.S. Attorney’s Offices across the country. The goal of the initiative is to address and raise awareness about sexual harassment by landlords, property managers, maintenance workers, loan officers, or other people who have control over housing.
Individuals who have information about this case can contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office by calling 617-748-3274, by e-mailing USAMA.victimassistance@usdoj.gov, or by visiting the case webpage.
Defendant: Peter McCarthy
Criminal Charges: Sexual Harassment and Retaliation in Violation of the Fair Housing Act
City and State: Lynn, Massachusetts
Exact Date: Through at least 2019
Sentence or Outcome: Case pending
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Key Facts
- State: Massachusetts
- Category: Sex Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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