Empire State Today

New York Attorney General Letitia James, along with Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon and Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh, announced a settlement with Syracuse landlord Todd Hobbs and his companies for failing to address lead-based paint hazards at his rental properties. The $175,000 settlement will be used to compensate families affected by lead poisoning and to address lead hazards at Hobbs' properties.

"Todd Hobbs put families’ health and well-being in danger and betrayed their trust," said Attorney General James. "As a result of his failure to properly address lead-based paint hazards, at least 11 children were poisoned by lead at his properties."

Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh stated, "With the help of Attorney General James, this settlement addresses three priorities. It holds Todd Hobbs accountable, directs resources to reduce dangerous lead hazards, and provides assistance to tenants."

The lawsuit against Hobbs and his companies was filed in July 2023 after 413 violations of lead safety laws were found at 19 different properties owned by Hobbs. At least 11 children were poisoned by lead while living at these properties.

Lead poisoning is a significant issue in Syracuse, where a large portion of housing stock was built before lead-based paint was banned. Children of color are disproportionately affected by lead poisoning in the area.

As part of the settlement, Hobbs will pay $175,000, with a portion going to compensate affected tenants and the rest allocated towards addressing lead hazards at his properties. Hobbs will not be able to sell any of these properties without approval until all lead hazards are resolved.

Various organizations and advocates have expressed support for the settlement, emphasizing the importance of holding landlords accountable for providing safe housing conditions and protecting vulnerable families from lead poisoning.

Attorney General James and her team have been actively working to enforce lead poisoning prevention laws, holding other landlords accountable for violations and ensuring the safety and well-being of tenants across New York.

The Attorney General thanked local authorities for their collaboration on this matter and reiterated the commitment to combating childhood lead poisoning in partnership with communities statewide.