D.C. Sues Landlord, Property Managers Over ‘Deplorable’ Living Conditions, Criminal Activity at Deanwood Apartments

April 18, 2025

The District of Columbia has filed a lawsuit against Mikhail Phillips, 711 49th Street LLC, RLP Investment Group LLC, and Vision Realty Management LLC over severe housing code violations at two apartment buildings in Deanwood. Attorney General Brian L. Schwalb's civil action details dangerous living conditions including trash accumulation, infestations, mold, unsafe wiring, and security issues that have enabled illegal activity, with seven deaths occurring on the properties over two years.

Who is affected

Tenants of the two apartment buildings at 5128 and 5134 Sheriff Road NE in Deanwood neighborhood of Ward 7
Residents like Karen Glover who have endured collapsed ceilings, mold, and non-functioning appliances
Neighboring community members impacted by illegal activities occurring at the properties

What action is being taken

The District of Columbia is pursuing a civil lawsuit against the property owner and managers
The Office of the Attorney General is seeking court-appointed receivership to rehabilitate the properties
D.C. police are responding to illegal activity at the buildings and have recovered firearms and drugs
Tenants are pooling funds to pay for trash removal themselves
The Department of Buildings continues to issue Notices of Infraction for ongoing violations

Why it matters

The conditions pose serious threats to health, safety, and human dignity of residents
The situation represents a violation of landlords' legal obligation to provide safe housing
The properties have become centers of illegal activity including drug use and gun violence
The case highlights exploitation of vulnerable residents in violation of multiple D.C. laws
As Ward 7 Councilmember Wendell Felder stated, residents have a right to habitable housing

What's next

If the lawsuit is successful, the District will force defendants to pay damages and penalties and transfer control of the property to a court-appointed receiver who will ensure tenants can live in safe and decent housing.

Read full article from source: The Washington Informer