Attorney General Todd Rokita takes action against Marshall County landlord

Friday, October 11, 2024 at 11:10 AM

By Kathy Bottorff

IN Attorney General Todd Rokita has filed a lawsuit against a corporate landlord over alleged failure to repair and maintain an apartment complex in Plymouth.

The lawsuit alleges that RICH-MONS Group LLC committed multiple violations of Indiana’s Deceptive Consumer Sales Act in connection with failures to properly maintain The Pointe Apartments.

“Tenants who pay their rent deserve the protection of the law,” Attorney General Rokita said. “Our legislature has made it clear that a landlord must maintain major systems in a leased property. Demanding rent from tenants while they are exposed to water intrusion, toxic mold, and dangerous electrical wiring is simply wrong.”

The lawsuit — filed by Attorney General Rokita’s Consumer Protection Division through its Homeowner Protection Unit — alleges that following an inspection by the City of Plymouth Building Commissioner Dennis Manuwal, Jr., approximately 20 residents were displaced and ordered to immediately evacuate the building. The inspection is alleged to have uncovered various roof leaks, visible black mold, and other unsafe conditions. The owner was also ordered to have a registered electrician perform an analysis of the electrical system. That electrician’s report noted open junction boxes, live wires hanging from boxes, gas lines with live amperage, and other fixtures with live voltage or amperage.

The lawsuit demands a jury trial, costs of prosecution, and other damages against the defendants for multiple violations of the Deceptive Consumer Sales Act.

The mission of the Homeowner Protection Unit is to protect the rights of all individuals involved in the housing market, including tenants, homeowners, and aspiring homeowners, by investigating and redressing deceptive acts in connection with mortgage lending and violations of relevant state and federal laws.

The unit strives to ensure equal access to housing opportunities for Hoosiers and promote the proper functioning of homeowner's associations. It works closely with law enforcement agencies at all levels to ensure justice is served and homeowners and tenants are protected.

Hoosiers are encouraged to contact the Office of the Indiana Attorney General about any suspected scams or scam attempts.

Consumers can file a complaint by visiting indianaconsumer.com or calling 1-800-382-5516.