C
alifornia Attorney General Rob Bonta has filed a lawsuit against real estate tycoon Mike Nijjar and his family's companies, alleging widespread violations of housing and tenant laws. The suit claims that Nijjar's companies, which own 22,000 rental units in low-income neighborhoods, have subjected tenants to vermin infestations, overflowing sewage, and overcharging. Bonta accused Nijjar of exploiting vulnerable families by refusing to invest in necessary repairs and deceiving tenants about their rights.

    The lawsuit follows a two-year investigation into Nijjar's properties, which revealed "slum-like conditions" that have resulted in tragic consequences for residents. Bonta is seeking penalties against Nijjar and his companies, restitution for tenants, and an end to unlawful business practices.

    Nijjar has denied the allegations, calling them "false and misleading." His attorney said that the claims are legally erroneous and that Nijjar's companies provide a valuable service to disadvantaged communities.

    The lawsuit alleges that Nijjar's companies have engaged in a pattern of behavior that includes inducing residents into deceptive leases, discriminating against tenants on public assistance programs, and issuing unlawful rent increases. The suit also contends that PAMA has violated California's rent cap law over 2,000 times by shifting utility costs onto tenants' bills.

    Bonta said that Nijjar's companies have taken advantage of lax accountability efforts and the vulnerability of low-income tenants. He added that it is time to hold Nijjar accountable for his actions, saying "enough is enough."