Sosa Barred from Discriminating Against Renters in NY

New York Attorney General Letitia James has halted the discriminatory practices of Montgomery County property owner Cesar Sosa, who refused to rent apartments to tenants using Section 8 housing vouchers.

Sosa, who owns or manages 57 residential buildings in Amsterdam, was found to have violated fair housing and human rights laws by falsely claiming his properties were not approved for voucher holders and blocking applicants. As part of the settlement with the Office of the Attorney General (OAG), Sosa must rent at least five units exclusively to voucher holders and adopt new non-discrimination policies.

‘All renters deserve fair access to affordable housing,’ said Attorney General James. ‘Sosa’s actions denied New Yorkers the chance to find a safe place to live, and my office will continue to fight for renters’ rights across the state.’

Housing vouchers are critical for low-income individuals, seniors, disabled people on fixed incomes, and temporarily displaced families. Denying them rental opportunities is discriminatory and unlawful under New York human rights laws.

The OAG investigation revealed Sosa’s discrimination was widespread, with examples of similar practices across his properties. Sosa must now pay a $3,000 penalty, post ‘Equal Housing Opportunity’ signs at all properties, and comply with the settlement terms or face additional penalties.

This action follows Attorney General James’ earlier efforts to protect New Yorkers from housing discrimination, including securing settlements with other property owners for similar violations.