NYC landlord says violent squatter caused $30K in damages while living rent-free on taxpayers’ dime
A New York City landlord is facing significant challenges with a tenant who has allegedly caused extensive damage to the property. The tenant, Falade Aderidigbe, has reportedly engaged in violent and disruptive behavior, leading to $30,000 in damages and $40,000 in legal fees for the landlord. Despite eviction proceedings that began in 2024, Aderidigbe remains in the apartment, causing distress to other tenants and the landlords.
- ▪The landlord claims the tenant caused $30,000 in damages while living rent-free.
- ▪Eviction proceedings began in August 2024, but the tenant remains in the apartment.
- ▪The tenant has exhibited violent behavior, including making threats and causing disturbances.
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Real Estate exclusive NYC landlord says violent squatter caused $30K in damages while living rent-free on taxpayers’ dime By Lauren Elkies Schram Published May 29, 2026, 3:48 p.m. ET See more of our coverage in your search results. Add The New York Post on Google It’s been a nightmare on East 119th Street. The owners of a recently completed East Harlem rental building have been unable to evict a tenant they claim is violent — even though they commenced eviction proceedings in August 2024 and his lease ended on Feb. 28, 2025. “He happily destroys our lives for two years and I can’t get a judge to remove him from this apartment,” landlord Amy Simek told The Post. 9 Police were called numerous times about Falade Aderidigbe’s disturbing behavior.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at New York Post.