A landlord has been sentenced to six weeks in prison after illegally evicting one of his tenants.

Lemuel Browne pleaded guilty to multiple charges at St Albans Magistrates Court on March 22, including illegal eviction, failing to maintain the fire alarm and electrical installation in a safe and working condition.

Following a complaint about the condition of 85 Gladstone Road, Watford, officers from Watford Borough Council’s Environmental Health team inspected the property in October and noted several defects.

A day later, police were called to the address following a disagreement between Browne and an occupant, after which, Browne illegally evicted the tenant.

Council officers continued to try and work with Browne, but he refused to produce tenancy agreements, rent records and other documentation which was required for their investigation

Justine Hoy, head of Environmental Health & Licensing at Watford Borough Council said:

“The vast majority of Watford landlords are completely professional and ethical; they do not take advantage of tenants or break the law. The council will continue to work with responsible landlords to support them and also do what we can to protect tenant rights and prevent homelessness.”