A troubling report of alleged illegal rent collection in San Francisco has been investigated and cleared by the City Attorney's Office. The investigation stemmed from claims that individuals were making rent payments to an employee of Eugene Berger Management Corporation (EBMC) while unlawfully occupying vacant units.

The City Attorney's Office conducted a thorough inquiry, interviewing over three dozen witnesses and examining claims made by non-lease holders. Their findings, detailed in a memorandum shared with the Housing Authority's board, revealed no evidence to substantiate the allegations against EBMC employee Lance Wittenberg. Many individuals who claimed to have paid rent could not provide proof, and some had even made payments during times when Wittenberg was not employed by the company.

While the investigation cleared EBMC of wrongdoing, it did uncover alarming reports of three non-lease holders being extorted under threats of violence. This has raised serious concerns about the safety of vulnerable individuals in the community. The Housing Authority emphasized the importance of keeping units slated for demolition uninhabited, stating that squatting poses risks not only to those living in the units but also to lease-holding residents.

The authority is urging anyone with information about illegal rent collection or threats of violence to contact the City Attorney's Office. They are committed to working with law enforcement and other agencies to address these issues and protect the community. The City Attorney's Office has provided contact information for reporting any suspicious activity, reinforcing their dedication to ensuring safety and legality in housing matters.