This week, a federal court judge in southern Illinois issued emergency restraining orders protecting IJ’s clients—two innocent families—from being evicted from their homes for crimes they didn’t commit.

IJ’s case challenges a compulsory-eviction law in Granite City, Illinois, a suburb of St. Louis. This law requires landlords to evict their tenants—on penalty of fines and even revocation of their rental license—if any member of their tenant’s “household” commits a crime. IJ clients Jessica Barron and Kenny Wylie are a perfect example of innocent tenants who are victimized by these outrageous ordinances. Though everyone acknowledges that Jessica, Kenny, and their three children have done nothing wrong, local police are bound and determined to turn their entire family out onto the street—against the wishes of their landlord.

Compulsory-eviction laws treat people who rent like second-class citizens—but IJ’s victory this week makes it clear that the courts do not. No one should be punished for a crime someone else committed. IJ will continue fighting to vindicate this principle and to restore vital constitutional protections for the property and due process rights of all Americans—regardless of whether they are renters or owners.


Will you join our efforts by making an online donation <[link removed]> today? Your gift will help IJ ensure that all Americans, regardless of income level, can enjoy the full protection of the Constitution.

Many thanks,
Scott

Scott G. Bullock
President and General Counsel
Institute for Justice
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