Will Threat of Prison Make One of New York’s ‘Worst Landlords’ Change?

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by Hurubie Meko, Shayla Colon and Mihir Zaveri

February 22, 2026

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A landlord in New York City, Daniel Ohebshalom, is facing up to four years in prison after being charged with felony harassment against rent-regulated tenants. Known for creating hazardous living conditions in five Manhattan buildings, Ohebshalom has been accused of intentionally worsening tenant experiences to force them out. This case highlights the ongoing struggles faced by renters in the city and raises questions about whether harsher penalties can lead to meaningful change. The building at 709 West 170th Street in Washington Heights, once a safe and clean space, has become synonymous with neglect under Ohebshalom’s ownership since 2008. Tenants have endured months without heat or hot water, severe water damage, and infestations. The premises have also faced issues like unaddressed trash, broken entryways allowing homelessness individuals to sleep inside, and structural decay covered by peeling paint. These conditions have led to a nightmare for residents like Bianca Camil, who has lived there for over 30 years. Despite numerous complaints, fines, and even two stints in jail for contempt of housing court, Ohebshalom’s practices have persisted. For the past five years, nearly a dozen tenants have been on a rent strike, but no significant improvements were made until now. The Manhattan District Attorney charged him with felony harassment, accusing him of using dangerous living conditions to push tenants out. This move marks a escalation in efforts to hold landlords accountable for violating tenant rights. The case has drawn attention to the broader issue of landlord

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/22/2026