DOJ Files Sexual Harassment Lawsuit Against Massachusetts Sober Home Operator
According to a Department of Justice (DOJ) press release dated August 11, 2021, a sober home operator in Massachusetts, Peter McCarthy, allegedly subjected female residents to sexual harassment and retaliation in violation of the federal Fair Housing Act.
The lawsuit alleges that from 2012 to 2019, Peter McCarthy sexually harassed female residents of his sober homes by making offers to reduce rent or waive security deposits in exchange for sexual favors or sexually explicit images. According to the lawsuit, McCarthy allegedly made unwanted sexual comments regarding female residents’ bodies and retaliated against residents who reported his conduct.
Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the DOJ’s Civil Rights Division explained, “At a time when our country is experiencing record numbers of deaths related to drug overdoses, it is particularly disturbing to see sexually harassing conduct targeted at individuals who are in recovery. The Department of Justice will not tolerate landlords who abuse their power and will continue to vigorously pursue allegations of sexual harassment.”
This lawsuit comes as a part of the DOJ’s Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative. The goal of this initiative is to 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.
Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Massachusetts Nathaniel R. Mendell said of the case, “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. Thankfully, the Fair Housing Act gives us effective tools to stop such despicable conduct and protect those who are being preyed upon. People who have experienced this kind of sexual harassment might be reluctant to report it, but we need to hear from them. Reporting sexual harassment is essential to stop and prevent sexual harassment.”