Rent for Sex, Threats for ‘No’: Kentucky Landlord Banned for Life, Must Pay $510K After Decades of Harassment

The U.S. Department of Justice has reached a $510,000 settlement with a Kentucky landlord to resolve allegations that he sexually harassed female tenants in violation of federal housing law.

The agreement with Joseph E. Johnson, who owned and managed residential rental properties in Lexington, resolves a lawsuit filed in December 2024 in federal court in the Eastern District of Kentucky.

According to the complaint, Johnson engaged in a pattern of misconduct spanning decades. Federal officials alleged he offered to forgive rent in exchange for sexual acts, made unwelcome sexual advances and comments, and subjected tenants to unwanted touching. The lawsuit also accused him of entering tenants’ homes without notice and threatening eviction when tenants refused his demands. It further alleged he failed to stop similar behavior by employees.

Under the consent order approved by the court, Johnson must pay $500,000 to individuals affected by the alleged harassment and a $10,000 civil penalty to the United States.

The agreement also permanently bars Johnson from managing residential rental properties and from contacting tenants involved in the case. It requires the implementation of anti-discrimination policies and training aimed at preventing future violations.