The U.S. Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against Kurt Williams and his company, Gearhead Properties LC, based in Davenport, Iowa, for allegedly violating the Fair Housing Act (FHA) by subjecting female tenants to sexual harassment. The legal action, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Iowa, details accusations spanning over a decade, dating back to at least 2010.
Williams, who has managed residential rental properties in Davenport for more than 13 years, is accused of using his position to exploit vulnerable female tenants. The lawsuit claims that Williams made unwelcome sexual advances, exposed himself to women, and demanded sexual favors in exchange for reduced rent or other housing benefits. It also alleges that he retaliated against tenants who rejected his advances by evicting them or refusing to make necessary repairs to their apartments.
“Landlords who target vulnerable women, using their power to demand sex for themselves or others, and retaliate with eviction or neglecting repairs, are committing a blatant abuse of power,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Justice Department is committed to protecting tenants’ rights to live free from sexual harassment. We urge survivors to come forward so we can ensure their rights are protected.”
The lawsuit sought monetary damages to compensate victims, civil penalties to address the public harm caused by the alleged actions, and a court order to prevent future discrimination by Williams and Gearhead Properties.
U.S. Attorney Richard D. Westphal emphasized the severity of the allegations, stating, “Seeking basic needs such as housing should not come with the threat of sexual harassment. Our office, alongside the Justice Department, will continue to defend tenants’ rights and hold accountable those who attempt to interfere with these basic protections.”
This case marks the culmination of a thorough investigation conducted by the Justice Department in collaboration with the Department of Housing and Urban Development Office of Inspector General (HUD-OIG). Inspector General Rae Oliver Davis condemned the alleged actions, asserting, “It is unconscionable for landlords to sexually harass or exploit their tenants. We will continue to work with our partners in law enforcement to ensure such behavior is eradicated.”
The Fair Housing Act makes it illegal to discriminate in housing based on various factors, including sex, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, and familial status. It also explicitly prohibits sexual harassment in housing situations. This lawsuit highlights the government’s dedication to ensuring that all tenants have the right to live in safe and respectful environments, free from any form of exploitation or abuse.
Anyone who suspects they have experienced harassment at properties managed by Kurt Williams or Gearhead Properties, or who has additional information about the case, is urged to step forward. Reports can be submitted to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa or the Department of Housing and Urban Development via their hotlines and online resources.
The Justice Department continues to stress the importance of vigilance in the fight against housing discrimination and is committed to taking action to protect tenants’ rights across the country.
