H
oward Lorber, former chairman and CEO of Douglas Elliman, admitted during an internal inquiry that he had intimate relationships with two company brokers, Jennine Gourin and Jessica Cohen. This revelation came to light on October 8, just two weeks before Lorber's departure from the company, according to a person familiar with the matter.

    The investigation was sparked by concerns over Elliman's culture and financial troubles. Initially led by attorney Marc Kasowitz, a longtime friend of Lorber's, the probe was deemed inadequate and later handled by Robert Anello of Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello in the weeks leading up to Lorber's exit.

    Elliman faced scrutiny this summer after lawsuits surfaced alleging sexual assault and rape by two former top producers, Oren and Tal Alexander. Additional allegations reported against the brothers included claims that at least two people had notified Elliman leadership of alleged incidents.

    During a video conference call, Lorber acknowledged having relationships with Gourin and Cohen. Cohen was also at the center of accusations against the Alexander brothers, who left the company in 2022. She told the New York Times that she informed Lorber about an incident in 2012, but he maintained it was confidential.

    A spokesperson for Elliman confirmed that Lorber had heard about the incident but said it wasn't an official human resources complaint. Cohen's lawyer described her as a "victim" and disputed any suggestion that her relationship with Lorber contributed to her success at the firm. Gourin declined to comment, while Lorber's lawyer denied that he was pushed out for acting inappropriately.

    Elliman did not have a policy against consensual relationships between employees and independent brokers. Gourin earned half a million dollars in 2013 and 2014, making her one of the firm's top brokers.