US landlords

PHOTO: Unemployment is skyrocketing in the US and some tenants are struggling. Photo credit: Getty

The US Department of Justice is warning landlords not to ask for sex instead of rent from tenants struggling during the COVID-19 pandemic.

US Attorney Robert Brewer issued a statement on Monday reminding landlords that asking for sex is illegal and “despicable”.

Brewer says the COVID-19 pandemic, and resulting stay at home orders across the country mean a lot of Americans are struggling and financially vulnerable. 

“These losses have forced many to seek suspensions of their rent, with reports that nearly one-third of Americans were unable to pay their April rent at the beginning of the month.”

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While many landlords have been understanding of the plight of their tenants, there have been reports of some asking for sexual favours and “unwelcome sexual conduct”.

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