Ex-Pub Landlords Fined £27,530 for Overcrowded House Violation

Leanne Anderson and William Moore, former landlords of the Cross Keys pub, have faced legal repercussions for overcrowding violations at 17 York Road, Acomb. Along with property businesswoman Jenafar Mospi Kabir and their company Letssy (UK) Ltd, they were convicted in a prosecution led by City of York Council.

Key Details of the Case

The violations occurred between October 16, 2023, and March 18, 2024. York magistrates highlighted the need for compliance with licensing requirements and maintaining high standards in accommodation.

Fines and Convictions

• Anderson and Moore each received a fine of £2,621.
• They were also ordered to pay £9,621 in prosecution costs and a £1,184 statutory surcharge, totaling £13,765 each.
• Letssy (UK) Ltd was fined £2,300 and faced additional costs, bringing their total to £12,841.
• Kabir, who pleaded guilty for failing to provide tenancy documents, was fined £162 alongside £5,773 in prosecution costs and a £63 statutory surcharge.

All fined parties were held liable for the overcrowding offenses, particularly in relation to the house in multiple occupation (HMO) they managed.

Background on the Individuals Involved

Anderson, aged 45, and Moore, 40, were previously convicted on separate criminal charges. Anderson has a history of tax fraud, while Moore has faced charges of assault. Despite their absence in court, they were still found guilty of overcrowding and failing to provide necessary documents to the council.

Kabir, aged 59, attended the hearing and described her association with the defendants as a professional one related to property management. She expressed that she was under the impression the pair were knowledgeable in letting practices. However, she did not follow up on the absence of expected documentation, which later raised concerns with authorities.

Community Response

Councilor Jo Coles vocalized the community’s frustration regarding the situation. At a council meeting, she emphasized that residents should not experience intimidation from landlords or letting agents. Her collaboration with fellow councilor Emily Nelson aimed to address these concerns raised by tenants at local surgeries.

The legal actions taken reflect a strong stance against rogue landlords, with the aim to protect tenant rights in York.