Lawsuit filed against Somerset Co. landlord for allegedly running unlicensed and dangerous properties
SOMERSET CO., Md. – A lawsuit has been filed in Somerset County Circuit Court against a landlord for allegedly running unlicensed and dangerous properties.
We’re told Maryland Legal Aid has filed the lawsuit against Eric Sessoms and Mt Vernon Group, LLC, who owns roughly 40 rental properties in Somerset, Worcester, and Wicomico Counties. It is alleged that Sessoms and Mr Vernon Group are renting out properties in Princess Anne and Crisfield without a rental license, with each property having dozens of safety and code violations. One family is reportedly living in an insect-infested home, plagued by bedbugs and roaches, while the other family lives in fear of an electrical fire due to the severe and dangerous electrical problems in the home. The conditions in both homes fail to meet housing code standards and Sessoms has allegedly failed to address these issues as required by law.
It is also alleged that Mt Vernon Group and Sessoms advertised a $2,500 security deposit for each property, but then later increased the security deposit to more than two times the monthly rent. They violated the Maryland Consumer Protection Act and the Maryland Fair Debt Collection Act by seeking rent on their unlicensed property. Finally, Sessoms and the Mt Vernon Group reportedly retaliated against both tenants by trying to evict them after they complained about the dangerous conditions.
The families have reportedly suffered extreme emotional distress due to these issues, including sleepless nights worried about unsafe and unhealthy conditions in their own homes.
“MLA warns tenants in Somerset County to be wary of these illegal and predatory tactics by landlords, particularly those families who are struggling to find affordable housing. It is important to do your research to make sure the property you are renting is licensed and does not have serious health and safety violations. If you are living in a rental property that you believe is unsafe or unhealthy, please reach out to Maryland Legal Aid or other legal resources to find out about your rights and get help,” said Supervising Attorney for Maryland Legal Aid’s Lower Eastern Shore Office.
