Legal Battles and Living Conditions: The Ongoing Dispute Between Chris Canty and Stuart Kalmenson
A former New York Giants defensive lineman, Chris Canty, is facing legal battles with his Upper West Side tenant over the eviction from a townhouse Canty owns. The tenant, Stuart Kalmenson, has been living in his two-bedroom apartment near Central Park for 19 years but has endured harsh living conditions due to Canty's renovation plans. Kalmenson has been without utilities, heat, and hot water for over two years, leading to a deteriorating living situation.
Despite facing legal proceedings initiated by Canty to evict him, Kalmenson has fought back, claiming that the conditions in his apartment are unsafe and appalling. The other tenants in the building moved out after Canty purchased it in 2020, leaving Kalmenson as the last remaining resident. Canty's attempts to remove Kalmenson have escalated, with construction work starting in the building while Kalmenson was still inside.
Canty's lawyer has refuted Kalmenson's claims, stating that they are without merit. The former NFL player was fined by the city Buildings Department for falsely claiming the building was empty during construction work. Canty has also faced eviction proceedings and legal action from Kalmenson, who has accused him of intimidation and harassment.
Despite Canty offering Kalmenson $45,000 to move out, the tenant chose to stay after receiving emergency pandemic rental relief. The construction work was halted after Kalmenson counter-sued Canty in court. The Department of Housing Preservation and Development has issued numerous violations against Canty for the property, leading to legal disputes and settlements.
Kalmenson has argued that the building should have been rent stabilized, allowing residents to stay after Canty's purchase. Canty, on the other hand, claims the building is still a co-op and not subject to rent stabilization. The legal battles between Canty and Kalmenson continue, with both parties standing their ground in the ongoing dispute over the townhouse.