Subject: Letter Sent This Morning via. Email for receipt.
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Urgent Request for Intervention and Oversight: Systemic Abuse, Housing Violations, and Health Endangerment in Minnesota
Dear Office of African American Health,
I am writing to formally request immediate attention and intervention regarding a pattern of systemic abuse and housing-related misconduct in Minnesota, which is contributing to dangerous health outcomes and the erosion of safety and civil rights—particularly among Black residents.
Recent firsthand documentation has revealed serious allegations of sexual harassment, stalking, medical neglect, vandalism, and mail tampering tied to a property currently operated by landlord Donald Klyberg and managed in part by Rick Newmann. Mr. Newmann is alleged to have engaged in persistent and retaliatory behavior toward tenants, including unwanted sexual advances, intimidation, and obstruction of access to basic living conditions.
These issues are not isolated. In 2018, Mr. Klyberg’s North Minneapolis properties were officially condemned as “unfit for human habitation and dangerous to life.” Those licenses were revoked following city findings. Yet, he continued operations in rural southern Minnesota, where the same violations and patterns of abuse have re-emerged—this time, seemingly shielded by silence and distance from oversight agencies.
The health consequences are dire. Tenants report developing or worsening symptoms of chronic conditions, including neurological complications triggered by stress and unsanitary conditions. There are accounts of medical discrimination from nearby providers when victims seek relief. As one case demonstrates, trauma-induced unconscious episodes and fear-based avoidance behaviors are interfering with both health and basic life functions such as receiving mail and deliveries.
This is not only a housing or criminal issue—it is a public health crisis that reflects the broader mechanisms of what’s been termed the “Minnesota Paradox,” where progressive public policies fail to protect the most vulnerable, and systemic neglect fosters environments that decrease Black health and wealth. Given the nature of the allegations and the documented harm, I am calling for:
- An immediate investigation into the activities of Donald Klyberg and Rick Newmann.
- A review of housing inspection reports and enforcement in the Southern Valley region.
- Intervention to protect any active tenants at risk and ensure safe relocation without financial penalty.
- The inclusion of Legal Abuse Syndrome and systemic racial abuse as contributing factors to PTSD in relevant health policy and service design.
Minnesotans deserve safe housing, protection from harassment, and equal access to justice. I urge your office to respond swiftly to this ongoing crisis and offer support or guidance to those affected.
Thank you for your time and commitment to equity and justice.
[Redacted]
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