News

Actions

Two former maintenance workers charged in sex-for-repairs scandal

Posted
and last updated

Two former Baltimore City Housing Authority maintenance workers face criminal charges in connection with the sex-for-repairs scandal. 

"I can't go into a lot of detail about the charges because this is an open and pending investigation but the charges that were filed in this case, like in all cases represent our subsequent investigation as well as our obligation to apply the facts to the law," said Rochelle Ritchie with the State's Attorney's Office.

That translates simply to criminal charges for Charles Coleman and Doug Hussy, both accused of asking female homeowners in Gilmor for sex in order to make repairs.

"I can simply say that in all cases, we're pursuing justice for victims in Baltimore City," Ritchie said. 
 
It's been a long time coming said Perry Hopkins of activist group, Communities United.
 
"Even though the process is still in its infancy, it's about accountability," he said. "Finally, there will be some accountability. 34
 
The housing authority vowed to make improvements to properties and agreed to pay millions to the victim in a class-action settlement, which more women may join as the investigation continues.
 
I'm feeling victorious, I'm feeling accomplished, I"m feeling celebrated, I'm feeling satisfied, I'm feeling quenched," Perry said.
 
According to a statement released by City State's Attorney, Marilyn Mosby, Charles Coleman and Doug Hussy face several charges, including 4th degree sex offense, harassment and misconduct.

See also: More women claiming harassment in sex-for-repairs lawsuit against Baltimore City housing

Coleman and Hussy now face jail time.

In a statement, Mosby said "the charges in these cases, like in all cases, reflect our subsequent investigation and our obligation to apply the facts to the law."

Last year, several women claimed maintenance workers at Gilmor Homes and other Baltimore Housing projects had demanded sex in exchange for repairs on their homes. 

Related: Settlement reached in public housing 'sex-for-repairs' lawsuit

The women settled the multi-million dollar class action lawsuit with the Housing Authority of Baltimore City. 

Download the ABC2 News app for theiPhone,Kindle andAndroid.