(WNY News Now) – River Valley Estates residents endure unsafe conditions, sewage overflow, and polluted water, as New York Attorney General Letitia James seeks $2.3 million in restitution and up to $295,000 in penalties.

Sullivan County, N.Y. – New York Attorney General Letitia James has filed a lawsuit against River Valley Estates, a mobile home park in Sullivan County, citing years of hazardous living conditions and illegal rent increases. The park, operated by George and Gayla Sue Levin, allegedly subjected over 200 residents to severe water outages, sewage overflow, and polluted water, while imposing unlawful fees and rent hikes.

Residents have faced routine water shortages and boil water orders since 2017, with tap water described as oily and sulfuric. Sewage often flowed into homes, and the park’s management provided little to no assistance in remedying these issues. River Valley has also been accused of neglecting essential infrastructure, such as unmaintained roads and inadequate lighting.

Attorney General James is demanding $2.3 million in restitution for residents, including compensation for illegal rent charges and costs related to the water crisis. She is also seeking $295,000 in civil penalties and a court order mandating the park to make necessary repairs.

James emphasized, “Every New Yorker deserves a safe and clean place to live, no matter where their home is.”

The lawsuit is part of a broader effort by AG James to address unsafe housing practices across New York.