After a hard-fought trial, a jury awarded $10.12 million to Fiedler Law Firm client, Cyndi Collins, holding her landlord, Edwin Allen, and his company accountable for hostile housing environment sexual harassment, quid pro quo sexual harassment, retaliation, and breach of contract.
Cyndi Collins, a hardworking single mother, rented an apartment from Allen’s property management company. Her lease agreement set her monthly rent at $1,000. Shortly after she moved in, Allen made it clear that he expected more than just rent—he wanted a sexual relationship. He told Cyndi that if she complied, she could keep her rental rate, but if she refused, he would raise her rent by $500.
When Cyndi rejected his advances, Allen followed through on his threats. He increased her rent overnight, refused to accept her rent payments, and put her at risk of eviction. He pounded on her doors and windows at all hours, honking his horn outside her home, making it clear that she couldn’t ignore him. He went so far as to cut off her electricity, further trying to force her into submission. When she still refused to give in, he filed eviction proceedings against her and even interfered with her ability to secure new housing after she left.
Cyndi did everything she could to protect herself and her children, but Allen used his position as her landlord to try to control her. But Cyndi refused to back down. It took patience, but after three years, her story was heard, believed, and justice was served.
The Iowa Civil Rights Act prohibits landlords from harassing tenants based on their sex and from explicitly or implicitly conditioning housing benefits on sexual favors. The law also prohibits landlords from retaliating against a tenant who refuses their demands.
After hearing the evidence, the jury found Allen and his company liable on all claims. The jury sent a clear message: this kind of abuse of power will not be tolerated. The jury awarded Cyndi more than $2 million in emotional distress and $8 million in punitive damages, holding Allen accountable and deterring others from future misconduct.
If you or someone you know has been victimized, contact the Fiedler Law Firm. No tenant should be forced to choose between their dignity and having a roof over their head. To learn more, click here to read a story by the Des Moines Register.