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Cook County judge has ordered the Chicago Housing Authority to pay over $24 million to two families whose children suffered severe lead poisoning in a Rogers Park apartment. The lawsuit, filed by Shanna Jordan and Morgan Collins on behalf of their children, Jah'mir and Amiah, alleged that the CHA was aware of hazardous lead-based paint in the unit but failed to inform the residents.

    The property had been under CHA ownership since 2016, managed by various companies including Habitat Company and East Lake Management Group. An environmental inspection conducted for the CHA in 2017 confirmed the presence of lead, which was documented in the agency's records dating back to 1992. However, the families were not informed.

    Lead poisoning can cause permanent physical and mental injuries, and the children will likely have lifelong disabilities. The jury held the CHA responsible for the children's injuries but cleared Habitat Company and East Lake of liability. The CHA expressed disappointment in the verdict while noting sympathy for the affected families.