IL Landlord Offered Sex In Exchange For Cheaper Rent: Authorities

PEORIA, IL — A central Illinois landlord accused of sexually harassing tenants and housing applicants is being sued by federal authorities over allegations that he violated the Fair Housing Act, officials said.

Michael J. DeWitte, of Washington, has managed rental properties in Peoria and other central Illinois communities since at least 2002, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. He is accused of subjecting tenants and applicants to: sexual contact, comments about their appearances, offers to strip, removal of his pants during a tour, genital exposure, requesting dates, requesting sex in exchange for lower rent or other benefits, and eviction of tenants who did not comply with his advances, authorities said.

“Landlords cannot use their position of power to sexually harass someone who simply wants a place to live,” Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke, of the department’s Civil Rights Division, said in a news release. “The Fair Housing Act protects tenants’ right to housing free of any kind of sexual advance or harassment. We encourage survivors to speak out so that we can vindicate their fair housing rights.”

DeWitte’s attorney, Kevin Sullivan, told 25 News Now that the allegations were “bogus,” that he intends to find out who the accusers are, and that DeWitte “has an outstanding relationship with his tenants.”

The lawsuit seeks monetary damages, civil penalties and a court order barring future discrimination, according to the department.

Those who believe they have been victims of housing discrimination by DeWitte can call federal authorities at 309-671-7019 or 833-591-0291, or email USAILC.Civil.Rights@usdoj.gov or FairHousing.USAILC@usdoj.gov.