A group of California tenants has taken legal action against a prominent property management company, alleging serious violations of state consumer protection laws. The complaint was filed by the plaintiffs on July 22, 2024, in Ventura Superior Court against Gleiberman Properties, Inc.
The plaintiffs, represented by the Litigation Advocacy Group and attorney Glenn A. Murphy, accuse Gleiberman Properties of failing to comply with the Investigative Consumer Reporting Agencies Act (ICRAA) and other tenant screening regulations. According to the lawsuit, the property management company did not provide prospective tenants with required notices or copies of investigative consumer reports used during the rental application process. This lack of compliance allegedly violates several provisions of California Civil Code sections 1786—1786.60.
The plaintiffs include Donzell Davis, Peter Johnson, Jodell Johnson, Nicolette Coppola, George Barrios, Mary Lacorte-Barrios, Isaac Horne, Hayley Horne, Jase Franke, Judith Hudson, Justin Gallo, and Mario Barba Campa—all former or prospective tenants at Las Positas Apartments and Andorra Apartments in Camarillo. They claim that Gleiberman Properties failed to notify them about investigative consumer reports that included sensitive information such as their character and general reputation. The plaintiffs argue that this omission constitutes a deliberate invasion of privacy and unfair business practices.
In their complaint, the plaintiffs cite specific requirements under ICRAA that were allegedly ignored by Gleiberman Properties. These include providing notice to consumers about investigative reports being prepared on them and offering a means for consumers to request copies of these reports. "Defendants did not provide a means by which the Plaintiffs could indicate that he or she wished to receive a copy of any report prepared in connection with the application," states the complaint.
The lawsuit seeks various forms of relief including actual damages for emotional distress and invasion of privacy as well as statutory damages amounting to $10,000 per violation per plaintiff. Additionally, they are demanding punitive damages due to what they describe as willful non-compliance by Gleiberman Properties. The plaintiffs also seek declaratory relief and an injunction to prevent further violations and protect other tenants from similar misconduct.
Attorney Glenn A. Murphy argues that this case serves not only his clients but also acts as a public service by addressing systemic issues within property management practices in California. "In pursuing this action Plaintiffs are acting for themselves and also as a private attorney general seeking to redress wrongs and protect the rights of other building tenants so that the continuing illegal practices in violation of the Civil Code permanently cease," reads part of the complaint.
The case is presided over by Judge Brenda L. McCormick under Case No. 2024CUBT027491.