The United States has secured a default judgment against three individuals from California in a case involving allegations of sexual harassment and retaliation under the Fair Housing Act. Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced that Bakersfield residents Juvenal Salazar and Javier Salazar Sr., along with Van Nuys resident Ricardo Covarrubias, faced charges related to incidents occurring between December 2018 and March 2019.
According to the lawsuit, Juvenal Salazar allegedly harassed a female tenant by making repeated sexual advances, commenting on her appearance, and taking unauthorized photographs of her. The complaint further stated that when the tenant reported these actions to Javier Salazar Sr., who is both the property manager and Juvenal’s father, she faced retaliation in the form of neglected repairs to her dwelling. This led to her living without heat for a month before eventually moving out.
The court found Covarrubias liable as well, as he was deemed responsible for the actions of his agents, the Salazars. After failing to respond or contest the motion for default judgment, U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Thurston ordered the defendants to pay $45,000 in damages to the tenant. Additionally, they are required to undergo training on Fair Housing Act requirements and implement a policy against sexual harassment. Juvenal Salazar is also prohibited from working in property management or maintenance for ten years.
Acting U.S. Attorney Beckwith emphasized: “For four months, this tenant refused the repeated sexual advances by the maintenance worker at her home, and when she reported the sexual harassment, she faced retaliation.” She added that such wrongful actions caused significant harm and distress to the victim.
Victims of housing discrimination or sexual harassment by landlords are encouraged to contact relevant authorities through provided hotlines or online platforms for assistance.
This case was managed by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert A. Fuentes as part of a collaborative effort between the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California and the Civil Rights Division.
