In a legal battle that could have significant implications for tenant rights in California, four plaintiffs have filed a lawsuit against a prominent investment company. The complaint, filed by Dania Abraham, Anet Ibrahim, Lydia Abraham, and Verjineh Ibrahim on March 20, 2025, in the Superior Court of California, County of Ventura, accuses Ventura Investment Co. of multiple violations related to tenant screening processes.
The plaintiffs allege that Ventura Investment Co., which manages several apartment complexes including Lumina Apartments in Simi Valley, violated the Investigative Consumer Reporting Agencies Act (ICRAA) by failing to comply with required procedures when obtaining investigative consumer reports on prospective tenants. According to the complaint, these reports contain sensitive information about an individual's character and lifestyle. The plaintiffs claim that the defendants did not provide necessary disclosures or consent forms as mandated by law. "Defendants failed to provide a means by which the Plaintiffs could indicate they wished to receive a copy of any report prepared," states the complaint.
Furthermore, the lawsuit accuses Ventura Investment Co. of false advertising and invasion of privacy. The plaintiffs argue that they were misled into paying application fees under the pretense that background checks would be conducted—a process they assert was never completed. They also contend that their privacy was invaded when their personal information was collected without proper legal compliance.
The plaintiffs are seeking substantial relief from the court. They demand actual damages for emotional distress and invasion of privacy, statutory damages amounting to $10,000 per report obtained without proper procedure, punitive damages for willful violations of ICRAA, and declaratory relief to prevent future infractions. Additionally, they request an injunction against Ventura Investment Co., prohibiting further illegal practices and ensuring compliance with tenant protection laws.
Represented by attorney Glenn A. Murphy from Litigation Advocacy Group, the plaintiffs are determined to act as private attorneys general in this case. They aim not only to seek justice for themselves but also to protect other tenants from similar unlawful practices by landlords across California.
This case is being heard under Case No. 2025 CUBTO4068r in front of judges at the Superior Court of California in Ventura County.