FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Harrisburg property manager ordered to pay $37k in sexual harassment case
HARRISBURG, PA – The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) has ordered Todd Toms and All Star Property Management and Renovations to pay $37,017.02 to a prospective tenant after finding that Mr. Toms sexually harassed the complainant. Additionally, Mr. Toms was found to have imposed discriminatory terms and conditions of leasing housing on the complainant, again on the basis of her sex.
A public hearing was held on March 23, 2023, in York, Pennsylvania on the issues of liability and damages. The state's case was prosecuted by Robert Taylor, Esq., PHRC Assistant Chief Counsel. The complainant was represented by Summit Legal Aid. Although they were notified of the public hearing, Todd Toms and All Star Property Management did not attend.
"The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission wants the people of Pennsylvania to know that we support those who are subjected to sexual harassment," said PHRC Executive Director Chad Dion Lassiter, MSW. "This order affirms that sexual harassment of any kind has no place in Pennsylvania. It should serve as a deterrent for other housing property managers and provide encouragement to tenants who were sexually harassed but are worried about coming forward."
In its September 18 final order, the commission ordered Mr. Toms to:
- cease and desist from sexually harassing anyone and otherwise acting in a discriminatory manner against anyone seeking to lease a property from him.
- pay the complainant the lump sum of $37,017.02 within 45 days.
- pay the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania a civil penalty of $10,000 within 45 days.
- report to the PHRC within 30 days on how it will comply with the order.
The PHRC, the state's leading civil rights enforcement agency, urges anyone who has experienced sexual harassment to file a complaint with the PHRC by calling 717-787-4410. A dedicated, unbiased PHRC intake specialist will walk you through the process and help prepare your complaint. Complainants do not incur any attorney fees during the investigation process from the PHRC. Pennsylvania law also protects you from retaliation. This means no one may lawfully take action against you for filing a complaint, opposing unlawful activity, or helping with an investigation. In addition, PHRC offers sexual harassment prevention trainings. You can find more information and resources at www.PHRC.pa.gov.