PA Human Relations Commission Orders Berks County Man to Pay $13,875 for Harassing Neighbor Based on Race and Disability

HARRISBURG, Pa., Aug. 1, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission ordered Dino Concordia, of Shillington, Berks County, to pay a total of $13,875 for illegally harassing Kelly Walton, also of Shillington, based on her race and disability. The order took effect July 26.

Walton filed a complaint alleging that Concordia, who is her neighbor, repeatedly harassed her based on her race and disability. Walton is African-American. Concordia failed to answer the complaint against him, and the commission held him liable for illegal discrimination.

"Harassing a neighbor because of her race or disability is housing discrimination," said Gerry Robinson, commission chairman. "It has been illegal for decades because it denies that person's right to enjoy her home.

"Equal opportunity in housing is the rule of law in Pennsylvania."

Concordia was ordered to cease discriminating against Walton and to pay her $10,000 in damages for humiliation and suffering, and $2,875 for the costs of modifications to her property.

Concordia was also ordered to pay $1,000 in civil penalties to the commonwealth.

Concordia has 30 days to report to the commission on how he will comply with the order.

Media contact: Shannon Powers, 717-783-8266

SOURCE Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission

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