Tenant Protections and Justice: The Importance of EvictionFree MKE

In a recent article from the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Milwaukee landlord George Sessler was sentenced to probation for his role in a racketeering scheme that has profoundly impacted many of his tenants. One of those affected was a client of the Legal Aid Society of Milwaukee's EvictionFree MKE initiative, which is dedicated to protecting tenants from unjust and harmful eviction practices.

The tenant's experience sheds light on the human toll of housing exploitation, where landlords prioritize profit over the well-being of their tenants. For this individual, and many others, living under Sessler’s control meant enduring unsafe conditions and being at constant risk of eviction. These conditions create an environment of fear, instability, and hardship for individuals and families already struggling to make ends meet.

Through the EvictionFree MKE initiative, the Legal Aid Society has been able to provide critical support to tenants like this individual. EvictionFree MKE offers free legal representation to renters in Milwaukee County, helping them navigate complicated legal systems and protect their rights. For many tenants facing eviction, this initiative is often their last line of defense in keeping a roof over their heads.

Stories like this one serve as a reminder of the necessity of stronger tenant protections and the work being done by organizations like Legal Aid. Without the support of EvictionFree MKE, tenants may find themselves in even more precarious situations, vulnerable to the whims of exploitative landlords.

As we continue to fight for fair and safe housing, the Legal Aid Society remains committed to standing alongside renters to ensure their rights are upheld, and their voices are heard.

To read the full article from the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel about George Sessler’s conviction and how it affected Milwaukee tenants, click here.