LAist Investigation Leads To Lawsuit Against Landlord Mike Nijjar By State Attorney General

James

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Post on Jun 13, 2025

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LAist Investigation Exposes Landlord Mike Nijjar, Leading to State Attorney General Lawsuit

Los Angeles, CA – October 26, 2023 – A groundbreaking investigative report by LAist has resulted in a significant legal action against prominent Los Angeles landlord Mike Nijjar. California Attorney General Rob Bonta filed a lawsuit today, alleging Nijjar engaged in widespread tenant harassment and illegal eviction practices, violating several state laws designed to protect renters. The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles Superior Court, marks a major victory for tenant rights advocates and highlights the power of investigative journalism in holding powerful landlords accountable.

The LAist investigation, published earlier this month, detailed numerous accounts from Nijjar’s tenants who described a pattern of intimidation, retaliatory evictions, and illegal rent increases. The report, meticulously researched and citing numerous documented instances, painted a disturbing picture of Nijjar’s business practices, revealing a blatant disregard for California’s tenant protection laws. The article quickly went viral, generating significant public outcry and prompting calls for intervention from state authorities.

Key Allegations in the Attorney General's Lawsuit:

The Attorney General’s lawsuit against Nijjar alleges a range of serious violations, including:

• Illegal Evictions: The suit claims Nijjar repeatedly attempted to evict tenants without just cause, violating California’s strict tenant protection laws. This includes the use of unlawful notices and harassment tactics to pressure tenants into leaving their homes.
• Retaliatory Evictions: The lawsuit alleges Nijjar retaliated against tenants who reported building code violations or attempted to organize for better tenant rights. This is a direct violation of California's anti-retaliation laws.
• Unlawful Rent Increases: The Attorney General’s office alleges Nijjar implemented illegal rent increases, exceeding the limits allowed under California’s rent control ordinances in areas where they apply.
• Harassment and Intimidation: The lawsuit details numerous instances of harassment and intimidation tactics employed by Nijjar against his tenants, creating a hostile living environment.

The Impact of Investigative Journalism:

The LAist investigation serves as a powerful example of how investigative journalism can expose wrongdoing and lead to meaningful change. By giving a voice to vulnerable tenants and meticulously documenting their experiences, the report provided the Attorney General’s office with the evidence needed to build a strong case. This underscores the critical role of a free press in holding powerful individuals and corporations accountable.

What Happens Next?

The lawsuit against Nijjar seeks monetary damages for affected tenants, injunctive relief to prevent future violations, and civil penalties. The case is expected to proceed through the courts, and the outcome will have significant implications for tenant rights in Los Angeles and beyond.

Protecting Your Tenant Rights:

This case highlights the importance of understanding your rights as a tenant in California. If you believe you've been a victim of illegal eviction, harassment, or unlawful rent increases, resources are available to help. You can contact:

• The California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD): [Link to HCD website]
• Tenant rights organizations: [Link to relevant tenant rights organizations]
• Legal aid societies: [Link to relevant legal aid societies]

This lawsuit against Mike Nijjar is a significant development in the ongoing fight for stronger tenant protections in California. The LAist investigation stands as a testament to the power of investigative journalism in bringing about justice and accountability. We will continue to follow this story closely and provide updates as they become available.