Sexual Harassment in Housing, North Dakota 2024

BISMARCK – In a disturbing trend, some landlords and housing providers are taking advantage of vulnerable individuals during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to United States Attorney Drew Wrigley.

The pandemic has led to increased housing insecurity, with many people struggling to pay rent on time. However, some housing providers are exploiting this situation by engaging in sexual misconduct, including harassment. US Attorney Drew Wrigley is urging anyone who has witnessed or experienced such behavior to come forward and report it to the authorities.

“While most landlords and housing providers have responded to the hardships of the COVID-19 crisis with understanding, others may attempt to exploit the financially vulnerable,” said US Attorney Drew Wrigley. “Such behavior is as illegal as it is appalling, and the United States Attorney’s office stands ready to investigate complaints of sexual harassment in housing, and we will deploy all available enforcement tools.”

The Justice Department’s Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative is an effort led by the Civil Rights Division, in coordination with United States Attorney’s Offices. The initiative has already led to lawsuits and recoveries for victims of harassment. Many individuals are unaware that being sexually harassed by a housing provider can be a violation of federal law.

The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in housing on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, familial status, national origin, and disability. Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination prohibited by the Act. Discrimination based on these protected classes can result in criminal or civil liability.

If you or someone you know has experienced sexual harassment in housing, contact the Civil Rights Division at (844) 380-6178 or email fairhousing@usdoj.gov. You can also reach out to the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of North Dakota at 701-297-7400. Additionally, you can file a complaint with the Department of Housing and Urban Development through their website or by calling (800) 669-9777.

The US Attorney’s office is committed to protecting the rights of individuals and holding accountable those who engage in illegal behavior. US Attorney Drew Wrigley urges anyone who has been affected by this issue to come forward and seek help.

This is not an isolated incident, and the US Attorney’s office will continue to work tirelessly to prevent and prosecute such crimes. If you have any information or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out. Your safety and well-being are our top priority.

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