For Immediate Release
Media Contact: Elana Eden, Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles, eeden@lafla.org
LONG BEACH, CALIF. — DECEMBER 1, 2025 — Tenants of the Ackerfield Buildings, a 143-unit apartment complex in Long Beach, have filed a lawsuit against the owner and property management company, Golden Bee Management and Ackerfield 2 LLC, for charging illegal fees and interfering with their right to organize—part of a growing trend of predatory business practices that prompted state legislation this year. The Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles (LAFLA) represents the plaintiffs, Michael Wroten, Jr. and Kevin Mann.
“They put us through hell—waking up every day scared of being evicted for no fault of our own,” said Mr. Wroten. “This case is to show companies like them that tenants are not going to stand by and let them pick on us with no repercussions. We will fight, and we will seek justice.”
For approximately three years, the landlords imposed fees on tenants for services that were never agreed to nor included in their leases, including charges for Spectrum cable and internet and renter’s insurance. Mr. Wroten and Mr. Mann, both low-income tenants, were each charged approximately $3,000 extra over the three years. When they refused to pay the unauthorized fees, the landlord responded by imposing late fees and issuing eviction notices.
“It’s completely unacceptable for landlords to try to sidestep rent regulations through back-door fees,” said Manuel Villagomez, managing attorney at LAFLA. “Landlords know that most tenants don’t have the time, resources, or legal support to challenge these exploitative practices. This lawsuit is sending a clear message that we will hold landlords accountable.”
In addition to the illegal fees, the landlords unlawfully interfered with tenants’ efforts to organize by canceling Mr. Wroten’s reservation for a meeting at the communal clubhouse. The meeting was intended to provide residents with information about their rights and the opportunity to discuss issues at the property with advocates from Long Beach Residents Empowered (LiBRE). Tenant organizing is a crucial tool for enforcing renters’ rights and is protected under both state and local law.
“No one should live with the fear of losing their home or face retaliation for bringing neighbors together to learn their rights,” said Andre Donado, executive director of LiBRE. “The willingness of Ackerfield tenants to organize, speak up, and seek justice will pave a path for the dignified housing they deserve. When people come together, they create real change.”
The lawsuit demands that the landlord immediately stop charging fees not outlined in the lease agreement; return all money collected through these unauthorized charges; and correct tenants’ rent ledgers by removing any negative balances resulting from the illegal fees. The complaint also seeks a court order protecting tenants’ rights to organize, including the ability to meet in common areas without interference, and a declaration that the landlords’ actions were unlawful. Read it here.
In October, Governor Newsom signed legislation prohibiting landlords from forcing tenants to use a specific internet service provider, allowing renters to deduct the costs if this right is violated. AB 1414 goes into effect January 1, 2026. While the action comes too late for the Ackerfield tenants and does not address all types of unauthorized “junk” fees, it reflects growing statewide recognition of the need for stronger landlord accountability and meaningful recourse for tenants facing exploitation.
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Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles (LAFLA) is a nonprofit law firm that seeks to achieve equal justice for people living in poverty across Greater Los Angeles. LAFLA changes lives through direct representation, systems change, and community empowerment. It has five offices in Los Angeles County, along with four Self-Help Legal Access Centers at area courthouses, and three domestic violence clinics to aid survivors.