Lewiston landlord accused of evicting tenant because he was on welfare.
By Daniel Hartill
Staff Writer

AUGUSTA – The Maine Human Rights Commission Monday backed a Lewiston man who claims he was evicted because he was on welfare.

The commission voted to support the recommendations of Investigator Barbara Lelli, who said landlord Daniel Michaud refused to accept state rent vouchers from renter Kevin Hill after the tenant lost his job. Instead, Michaud evicted Hill.

According to Lelli’s report, Hill tried repeatedly to convince Michaud to sign paperwork allowing the rent to be paid through a state general assistance program. Hill told Lelli that Michaud refused, saying he would sign nothing.

The Sun Journal was unable to reach Hill Monday for comment.

Michaud called the allegations against him “completely false.”

At least one other tenant in the building is on general assistance, said Michaud, who owns the six-apartment building at 165 Cottage St.

If he were against people on welfare, she wouldn’t be there either, he said. The landlord alleges Hill damaged the apartment and owes more than $1,000 in rent money.

According to Lelli’s report, Michaud failed to respond to two queries by HRC. But Michaud said he has since written to the commission and anticipates that a settlement will be reached, he said.

“It’s all going to be taken care of,” said Michaud.

In an unrelated case, the HRC voted to delay taking action on a scheduled case between a Litchfield landlord and a tenant.

In that case, tenants Preston and Audrey Williams argued that landlord Leiane Desrosier evicted the couple because Preston Williams is black.

Copy the Story Link