Shreveport Apartment Owner Pleads Not Guilty to Criminal Charges
Landlord Faces Charges for Poor Living Conditions
Shreveport City Court Judge Mary Mudrick reiterated the principle that all defendants are innocent until proven guilty during a Tuesday morning criminal hearing. Among those in attendance was attorney Dhu Thompson, representing Yacov Smouha, the absentee owner of Amar Shreveport Holdings. Smouha is currently facing multiple misdemeanor criminal charges, including criminal blight for the dilapidated state of several Shreveport apartment complexes. Through his attorney, Smouha pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Amar Holdings Controversy
Amar Holdings owns both The Pines and Villa Norte apartment complexes, locations that have generated considerable negative press due to their deteriorated condition. Recently, the city informed residents their water supply would be cut off as a result of unpaid bills by the property owner. Despite these issues, Smouha was not in court to answer to these allegations.
Setting of The Trial
Judge Mudrick emphasized the need for both Thompson and Smouha to attend the proceedings. However, Smouha’s attorney remained confident about handling the case. The trial has been scheduled for August 2, with Thompson expressing confidence in preparing for the same post a review of the discoveries and allegations in play.
Councilwoman Voices Concerns
Tabitha Taylor, a Shreveport councilwoman, voiced her disappointment at Smouha. Asserting that her constituents had borne “the brunt” of the negligent landlord, she expressed her desire for Smouha to be present on August 2 and confront the charges laid against him. According to the councilwoman, Smouha’s absence and lack of connection to the local community highlighted his ignorance of the dire living conditions experienced by his tenants.”
The Councilwoman’s Message to the Absent Landlord
Through the press, Taylor sent a direct message to Smouha. Accusing him of living comfortably while his residents suffered, she painted a stark picture of the conditions experienced by the tenants of the rundown apartments. Mentioning raw sewage, rats, and rodents, she exposed the grim realities faced by the residents.
Uncertain Future
As the trial date approaches, the plight of the residents of Villa Norte and The Pines apartments hang in balance. With the landlord standing firm on his not-guilty plea, it remains to be seen whether the conditions of these properties will improve or continue to deteriorate, leaving the vulnerable residents to suffer.
