United States v. Klosterman

UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT

SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF OHIO

WESTERN DIVISION

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, Case No. 1:18-cv-194

Plaintiff, and Barrett, J.

Bowman, M.J.

HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES

MADE EQUAL INC.,

Plaintiff-Intervenor,

v.

JOHN KLOSTERMAN and

SUSAN KLOSTERMAN,

Defendants.

REPORT AND RECOMMENDATION

This matter is before the Court upon the motion of the United States to enforce a

Consent Decree (“Decree”) entered into by Defendants John and Susan Klosterman,

which Decree was designed to enjoin and remedy John Klosterman’s pattern or practice

of sexually harassing tenants at his residential rental properties. The motion has been

referred to the undersigned for initial consideration and a Report and Recommendation.

(Doc. 96). For the reasons that follow, the motion should be GRANTED.

I. Factual and Procedural Background

This Fair Housing Act case was the first of several related cases involving

Defendant John Klosterman, and to a lesser extent, his wife Susan Klosterman. With the

exception of a bankruptcy petition,1 most cases were filed in state court. The above-

1In May 2019, Defendants filed a pro se bankruptcy petition and invoked the automatic stay provision in

this case. However, this Court granted the Motion of the United States in Opposition to Imposition of the

captioned case was initiated by the United States on March 21, 2018, and alleged that

Mr. Klosterman sexually harassed female tenants living in properties in which he and his

wife had an ownership interest, in violation of the Fair Housing Act, 42 U.S.C. § 3601 et

seq. (Doc. 1). Specifically, the United States alleged that Mr. Klosterman, since at least

2013, discriminated on the basis of sex against female tenants by engaging in conduct

that included: (1) making unwelcome sexual comments and advances, and sending

unwelcome sexual text messages and photographs; (2) touching female tenants on their

bodies without their consent; (3) offering to grant housing benefits in exchange for sex;

(4) taking adverse housing actions - such as refusing to make repairs or threatening

eviction - against female tenants who refused his sexual advances; (5) expressing a

preference for renting to single female tenants; and (6) entering the homes of female

tenants without their consent and monitoring their daily activities through cameras or other

means. (Id. ¶ 11 at PageID 2–3). On August 2, 2018, Housing Opportunities Made Equal,

Inc. (HOME) intervened as an aggrieved party. (Doc. 25).

Defendants were represented by counsel from the outset of this case through its

resolution with the entry of a Consent Decree. This Court facilitated that resolution, and

on August 17, 2020 noted that the case was “settled in principle pending Defendant Susan

Klosterman’s signature on the consent decree and procurement of final approval by the

Assistant Attorney General.” (Minute Entry 8/17/2020). By September 30, 2020, all

parties had signed the Consent Decree and jointly moved the Court to approve it; on

October 1, 2020, this Court entered the Decree. (Docs. 91, 92). In general, the Decree:

(1) includes what is presumed to be an accurate statement of Defendants’ rental property

Automatic Stay, concluding that this Fair Housing Act action was specifically exempt from the stay provision.

(Doc. 43).

holdings and requires Defendants to notify the United States of any change to those

holdings; (2) prohibits Defendant John Klosterman from continuing to personally interact

with tenants or otherwise participate in the rental management business; (3) requires

Defendants to turn over the management of rental properties to an independent property

manager (“Independent Manager”); (4) requires Defendants and their agents to obtain

Fair Housing Act training; and (5) requires Defendants pay $177,500 in monetary

damages and civil penalties. (Doc. 92, at ¶¶10-39, PageID 4980-86).

In the pending Motion to Enforce the Decree, the United States argues that

Defendants have failed to comply with virtually all substantive provisions of the Decree.

Pursuant to the Decree,2 defense counsel filed a Notice of Withdrawal on April 9, 2021.

(Doc. 94). Recently on November 3, 2021, the United States filed a Motion to Substitute

John Klosterman for Defendant Susan Klosterman, based upon the death of Susan

Klosterman on October 20, 2021. (Doc. 101). Defendant John Klosterman continues to

proceed pro se in opposition to the pending motion.

After this federal lawsuit was filed, separate civil litigation was filed on August 14,

2019 by the City of Cincinnati in the Hamilton County Court of Common Pleas to collect

fees, fines, and other costs related to extensive violations of the Cincinnati Municipal

Code and subsequent code enforcement efforts at rental properties owned by

2The Consent Decree stated that defense counsel “shall have no further obligations” after receiving

releases signed by a group of aggrieved individuals. (Doc. 92 at PageID 4986, Consent Decree ¶36 n.5).

The last signed release was received on March 29, 2021. (Doc. 94). The scope of defense counsel’s

representation after the Decree was entered but before counsel filed the Notice of Withdrawal is unclear.

(See e.g., Doc. 95-5 at19, PageID 5097 (email from defense counsel stating that “we are now outside the

scope of our assignment from the insurer,” and that if the United States seeks “enforcement of the consent

decree, we will not be acting on behalf of the Klostermans.”); see also id. at 18, PageID 5096 (2/25/21 email

stating that “our assignment has ended with the exception of the ministerial task of obtaining the last

release.”); Doc. 95-5 (4/6/21 letter from AUSA to Defendants, acknowledging that defense counsel is “no

longer representing you.”)).

Defendants. See City of Cincinnati v. John Klosterman, et al., Case No. A1905588.3

Highly relevant to this federal case is the fact that on February 14, 2020, the state court

placed Defendants’ rental properties under Receivership. Id., Order Appointing Receiver.

Unbeknownst to the United States at the time, five rental properties owned or controlled

by Defendants remained outside of the Receivership.

After this federal case was “settled in principle” but before this Court filed the

Decree, the State of Ohio filed the first of two criminal charges of Menacing by Stalking

against John Klosterman relating to his activities concerning a female who, until April

2021, resided in one of the properties that he owned outside of the Receivership.4 The

first charge alleged that Defendant “showed up at [the victim’s] residence unannounced

and uninvited, likewise he has come to her place of employment unannounced and

uninvited…[and] followed her in his car.” Ohio v. Klosterman, Case No. 20CRB17905,

Affidavit, Sept. 17, 2020, and said “odd things to her.” Id. Although the first state criminal

charge was filed before the Decree was filed in this case, a second Menacing by Stalking

Charge was filed on November 2, 2020, more than a month after entry of the Decree.

See Ohio v. Klosterman, Case No. 29CRB21168, Complaint, Nov. 2, 2020. The second

charge involved the same female tenant, and alleged that Defendant “continued to show

up at the victim’s employment causing her to be in fear for her safety.” Id.

The United States has offered evidence that Defendant was found to have violated

the conditions of his bond regarding the Menacing by Stalking charges on at least four

occasions occurring on or after the entry of the Consent Decree, between October 2,

3Due to the volume of related civil and criminal proceedings in state court, Plaintiff has attached only a small

portion of the relevant state court records as exhibits in support of its motion. To the extent not included in

Plaintiff’s exhibits, this Court takes judicial notice of all state court records.

4The same individual now resides in a property under control of the Receivership.

2020 and June 24, 2021. (See Doc. 95 at 3-4, PageID 5002-03 (citing state court

records)). In addition, on November 13, 2020, a Grand Jury indicted Defendant for a

misdemeanor violation of a protective order. See Ohio v. Klosterman, Case No.

B2005843, Indictment for Violating a Protection Order. That indictment was based upon

a finding that the conduct that resulted in the second Menacing by Stalking charge also

violated the protection order issued in connection with the first Menacing by Stalking

charge. In August 2021, Defendant was found guilty of all state criminal charges and

sentenced to serve a total of 360 days.

Three weeks before Defendant was found guilty of criminal charges, the United

States filed the instant Motion to Enforce the Consent Decree.5 (Doc. 95). Defendant

John Klosterman filed an individual pro se “Answer” or response to the motion. (See Doc.

99). Plaintiff-Intervenor HOME also has filed no response.6 The United States filed a

reply in support of its motion. (Doc. 100).

II. Analysis of Motion to Enforce the Decree

A. The Motion to Substitute John Klosterman

The United States filed a Motion to Substitute John Klosterman in place of Susan

Klosterman, based upon the recent death of Susan Klosterman on October 20, 2021,

which event moots any injunctive relief sought against her. The United States seeks to

substitute Defendant John Klosterman on the basis that any monetary damages that Mrs.

Klosterman was obligated to pay to the victims of sexual harassment in this case survive

5Because the case was administratively closed following entry of the Decree, the motion of the United

States is construed as a motion to re-open the case to enforce the Decree.

6The lead attorney for HOME withdrew from representation after entry of the Consent Decree, but her

Notice of Withdrawal states that “Alphonse A. Gerhardstein of the new law firm of Friedman, Gilbert +

Gerhardstein, LLC has consented to substitute as Trial Attorney for Plaintiff if the case is re-opened.” (Doc.

93). Mr. Gerhardstein entered his appearance on July 23, 2018, (Doc. 14). The receipt generated by the

filing of Doc. 95 indicates that the motion was electronically sent to Mr. Gerhardstein on July 27, 2021.

her death. John Klosterman is the presumed beneficiary of his wife’s estate under Ohio

law.

Under 28 U.S.C. § 2404, “a civil action for damages commenced by or on behalf

of the United States,” survives the death of a defendant and is enforceable against the

estate as well as any surviving defendants. In addition, Fair Housing Act claims typically

survive the death of a party. See Revock v. Cowpet Bay Est Condo. Assoc., 853 F.3d

96, 108-110 (3d Cir. 2017); see also generally Crabbs v. Scott, 880 F.3d 292, 294 (6th

Cir. 2018) (applying Ohio state law and finding a § 1983 claim survived death). The

undersigned agrees that substitution of John Klosterman in place of Susan Klosterman is

appropriate for purposes of any remaining claims of monetary damages against her

estate.

B. This Court’s Authority to Interpret and Enforce the Decree

The Consent Decree was entered upon the Court's approval, and provides for the

Court's retained jurisdiction. The Decree grants prospective injunctive relief and provides

the United States with a mechanism to petition the Court to enforce its terms. (Doc. 92

at 11, ¶¶ 42, 46). “It falls on the Court, as issuer of the Decree and the injunctive relief

provided therein, to interpret and apply the terminology to the circumstances at hand.”

McGoldrick v. Bradstreet, 397 F.Supp.3d 1093, 1101 (S.D. Ohio 2019). In interpreting

the Decree, the Court is bound by principles of Ohio contract law. See Marie Tribe of

Chippewa Indians v. Engler, 146 F.3d 367, 372 (6th Cir. 1998). Thus, the Court must

closely examine the precise language of the Decree to determine whether Defendants

have violated its provisions. “The Ohio Supreme Court has held that extrinsic evidence

surrounding a contract may only be considered when the language of the contract is

unclear or ambiguous or when the circumstances surrounding the agreement invest the

language of the contract with a special meaning.” Waste Management of Ohio, Inc. v. City

of Dayton, 169 Fed. Appx. 976, 989, 2006 WL 620648, at *12 (6th Cir. 2006) (citing Shifrin

v. Forest City Enters., Inc., 64 Ohio St.3d 635, 597 N.E.2d 499, 501 (1992)).

C. The Alleged Violations

1. The False Affirmation in ¶ 10 and Failure to Update Holdings in ¶ 11

The United States asserts that both Defendants violated a central tenet of the

Decree that “requires Defendants to accurately represent and update the extent of their

rental property holdings.” (Doc. 95 at 2, PageID 5001). The undersigned agrees. At the

time the parties entered into the Decree, the United States believed that all rental

properties owned or operated by either of the Defendants had been placed under the

control of a Receiver during the state court civil litigation. Defendants unequivocally

confirmed the accuracy of that understanding in ¶ 10 of the Decree, which states:

10. Defendants affirm that they do not own, lease, or control any rental properties

with the exception of properties under receivership in City of Cincinnati v. John

Klosterman, et al, Hamilton County C.P. Case No. A190558 (the

“Receivership”).

(Doc. 92 at 3, ¶10).

The affirmation in ¶ 10 is foundational to the entire Decree. While ¶ 10 is the first

paragraph in Section IV, appropriately captioned “INJUNCTION CONCERNING

MANAGEMENT OF RESIDENTIAL RENTAL PROPERTIES,” multiple provisions of the

Decree are defined by reference to the properties held under Receivership as discussed

below. Closely related is ¶ 11, which requires Defendants to update the United States if

they acquire any additional rental holdings outside of the Receivership.

11. If, at any time during the effective period of this Decree, either or both

Defendants acquire a direct or indirect management, ownership, financial, or

controlling interest in any other residential rental property (or if they maintain

any such interest in any residential property following the Receivership), such

property will be subject to the applicable provisions of this Decree. Within 30

days of acquiring such an interest (or, for any properties currently owned and

retained following the Receivership, within 30 days following the termination of

the Receivership), Defendants will notify counsel for the United States of the

nature of their interest in the dwelling or property; the address of the property;

the number of individual dwelling units at the property; and any other

information required under this Decree. Defendants will further provide the

United States with copies of any documents memorializing the transfer in

interest of the property.

(Id. at ¶ 11).

Consistent with the foundational statement in ¶ 10, an earlier section contains

terms and conditions that make plain that the Decree is intended to apply to “any

residential property that is owned or operated” by Defendants. Specifically, ¶ 7 in that

section states: “Unless otherwise specified herein, the provisions of this Decree apply to

any residential property that is owned or operated by any of the Defendants, or that is

owned or operated by any entity of which any Defendant is an officer, agent, employee

or partner, or in which any Defendant has any ownership, financial, or control interest,

whether that property is currently owned or acquired during the term of this Consent

Decree.” (Doc. 92 at ¶ 7, PageID 4979).

Soon after entry of the Decree, the United States began to suspect that the

affirmation in ¶ 10 was false, and that one or both Defendants retained ownership or

control of five additional rental properties outside of the Receivership. The United States

sought clarification from defense counsel. (See Doc. 95-7, email from Plaintiff’s counsel

to defense counsel dated 2/18/21, requesting a response not later than March 5 and

expressing concern, based upon information “from the receiver that John Klosterman is

renting properties that are not a part of the receivership”). Defense counsel promptly

responded via email dated 2/23/21, stating that counsel “have no knowledge about any

of the allegations made by the receiver,” expressly affirming that defense counsel “were

under the belief that all of the Klosterman properties were under receivership,” and

indicating counsel would follow up with the Klostermans. (Doc. 95-5 at 19, PageID 5097).

In a March 5, 2021 letter that Defendant John Klosterman sent directly to the

United States,7 Defendant admits to owning five properties outside the Receivership,

contrary to the affirmation made in ¶ 10. (Doc. 95-2, stating that “[w]e own and have

owned 621, 623, 634, 787, and 801 Delhi for over a decade.”). Defendant additionally

admits that, with respect to 801 Delhi, he expanded any pre-existing ownership interest

through a buy-out that occurred in October 2020.8 Therefore, Defendants admit to

violating both ¶ 10 and ¶ 11 of the Decree.

Rather than accepting responsibility for the false affirmation, Defendant John

Klosterman suggests that the United States should have been aware of the inaccuracy

because the five properties “were all listed in the Bankruptcy documentation that the City

and [t]he US Government were a part of in the first hearing of the Debtors.” (Doc. 95-2 at

3). Defendant also places a heavy share of blame on defense counsel. Contrary to

counsel’s statements, Defendant insists that his attorneys knew “that I retained properties

that the City failed to attach their judgment to and was also known at the withdrawn

bankruptcy hearing.” (Id. at 2). Defendant maintains that former counsel also knew that

7Defense counsel apparently forwarded the United States’ email to Defendant John Klosterman and asked

him to respond. The United States represents that the Defendant’s letter was received on or about March

5, 2021.

8To the extent that Defendants had an ownership interest in 801 Delhi at the time the Decree was entered,

Defendant implies that interest was shared with a business partner. The March 5, 2021 letter explains that

“801 Delhi was owned by my old employee and partner of 30 years” but that “we decided that I would buy

him out and [I] did so in October I believe.” An October 2020 “buy out” date constitutes a change in

Defendant’s holdings that post-dates the Decree and triggers an obligation to report under ¶ 11.

Defendant intended to use “the income generated from the units” to satisfy the judgment

owed under the Consent Decree. (Doc. 95-2 at 1).

Regarding his own culpability, Defendant suggests that he didn’t have time to read

through and didn’t recall the terms of the Decree, which he only signed “at the last

settlement meeting… after much back and forth … while [counsel] feverishly made

whatever changes were discussed….” (Id. at 2). He asserts that he believed that the

settlement “was mostly about money and I recall nothing was said about any other

important items,” other than that he “would have nothing to do with tenants.” (Doc. 95-2

at 2). In a follow-up email, Defendant characterizes the false affirmation as a “good faith

mistake,” (Doc. 95-8, 4/23/21 email from Defendant to AUSA stating that “I will

answer…any of the concerns that you had, including the good faith mistake in not

reporting the 5 properties that the City failed to control.”).

In his response in opposition to the motion to enforce the Decree, Defendant walks

back some of his prior admissions, suggesting that at the time of the Decree, he “believed

all rental properties [were] subject to the receivership,” and “did not find out until later that

five (5) properties were left off of the list of the receivership.” (Doc. 99 at 2). As to any

obligation to correct the error or update the list of holdings, Defendant asserts that he

“fully expected [defense counsel] to notify the Court and the U.S. Attorney,” and “did not

find out until months later that [counsel] had removed himself from the case.” (Id.)9 In

other words, Defendant’s response to the pending motion focuses on evading personal

responsibility for the false affirmation and/or failure to correct the record, in the same way

9Many of Defendant’s vague statements are contradicted by the record. For example, he seems to suggest

that he was unaware of the withdrawal of defense counsel. Apart from the provision of the Decree that

spelled out that counsel would have no further obligation after receiving releases signed by a group of

aggrieved individuals, the Notice of Withdrawal was served on Defendants by certified mail. (Doc. 94).

that his March 5, 2021 letter and April 23, 2021 email imply that any errors were made by

counsel, and/or in “good faith.”

To the extent that Defendant believes he should escape culpability because he did

not read the Consent Decree before signing, he is mistaken. Under controlling Ohio law,

a party cannot evade the terms of a contract that he knowingly signs by later pleading

ignorance as to its terms. It is a “long-held principle that parties to contracts are presumed

to have read and understood them and that a signatory is bound by a contract that he or

she willingly signed.” Preferred Capital, Inc. v. Power Eng. Group, Inc., 112 Ohio St.3d

429, 2007-Ohio-257, 860 N.E.2d 741, ¶10 (Ohio 2007). “Further, if the parties have

signed a written agreement, it is presumed that their minds have met and

a contract made, even if one of the parties failed to read the agreement.” Hughes v.

Cardinal Fed. Savings & Loan Assoc., 566 F. Supp. 834, 844 (S.D. Ohio 1983)

(citing Parklawn Manor v. Jennings-Lawrence Co.,197 N.E.2d 390, 26 Ohio Op.2d 341,

344 (1962)). In any event, nothing in Defendant’s response disputes: (1) that the full

extent of Defendants’ rental holdings being held under Receivership was fundamental to

the Decree; (2) that the affirmation set forth by Defendants in ¶ 10 was false when made,

because Defendants actually owned or controlled five properties outside of the

Receivership; and (3) that Defendants violated ¶ 11 by failing to notify the United States

(at a minimum) of the acquisition of a new post-Decree interest in 801 Delhi. Thus,

undisputed facts reflect that Defendants made a false affirmation in ¶ 10 on the date of

the Decree, and that they subsequently violated ¶ 11.

2. Violations of Paragraphs 12 and 20 of the Decree

The United States next argues that Defendant John Klosterman has violated an

injunctive provision that permanently enjoins him from personally interacting with tenants

or otherwise participating, directly or indirectly, in the rental management business.

Again, the undersigned agrees, based upon the language agreed upon by the parties and

entered by this Court.

12. John Klosterman is permanently enjoined from directly or indirectly performing

any property management responsibilities at any residential rental property. For

purposes of this Decree, “property management responsibilities” include the

following: showing or renting housing units; processing rental applications;

performing or supervising repairs or maintenance; determining tenant eligibility for

subsidies or waivers of fees and rents; inspecting dwelling units; collecting rent

and fees; entering occupied rental units; overseeing any aspects of the rental

process; or engaging in any other property-related activities that involve, or may

involve, personal contact with tenants or prospective tenants.

(Doc. 92 at 4, ¶12, PageID 4981). Unlike some provisions, ¶ 12 prohibits all property

management activities by Defendant John Klosterman for “any residential rental property”

without regard to whether those properties are held under Receivership.

Relatedly, ¶ 20 also permanently enjoins both John and Susan Klosterman:

20. Defendants are permanently enjoined from purposefully or knowingly

contacting or communicating, either directly or indirectly, with any person identified

by the United States as an aggrieved person in this action, or with former or

prospective tenants of Defendants’ former or future rental properties. “Contact or

communications includes, but is not limited to, physical contact, verbal contact,

telephone calls, e-mails, faxes, written communications, text or instant messages,

contacts through social media, or other communications made through third

parties.

(Id. at PageID 4982). Thus, ¶ 20 prohibits contact or communication with “former or

prospective tenants” at “Defendants’ former or future rental properties.” To the extent

that a reference to “former” tenants is ambiguous, the undersigned interprets the phrase

to refer to all tenants who held leases prior to October 1, 2020, because the salient date

for interpreting the Decree was the date it was entered by this Court. For the same

reason, the undersigned interprets “former or future rental properties” in ¶ 20 to mean

properties held or controlled by Defendants either before or after October 1, 2020, with a

“prospective tenant” to mean any person seeking to rent from Defendants on or after

October 1, 2021.

In his March 5, 2021 letter, Defendant admits that he knew at the time he entered

into the Decree “that I would have nothing to do with tenants,” and that he “agreed

wholeheartedly” to that requirement. (Doc. 95-2 at 2). Yet, in the same letter, Defendant

admits to being involved in rental negotiations with at least one prospective tenant. (Doc.

95-2 at 6). Additionally, he states in his April email that he personally “instructed the 2

tenants at 801 Delhi to send rents via money order until I have found a new manager.”

(Doc. 95-3). Thus, John Klosterman admits to violating both ¶ 12 and ¶ 20. Defendant

also admits to having employed a tenant and later a prospective tenant to perform

property management responsibilities, which also violated both provisions. And another

property manager identified by Defendant, Ms. Rammelsburg, informed the United States

that Defendant was still “communicating with tenants and prospective tenants and

collecting rents.” (Doc. 95-10 at 2, PageID 5168). Last, Defendant’s recent state criminal

charges involving multiple communications with a former tenant of 801 Delhi offer further

evidence of his violations of ¶¶ 12 and 20 after entry of the Decree.10 (See Docs. 100-1,

100-2, 100-3).

10Defendant complains that some events occurred earlier, but does not dispute that other events occurred

after October 1, 2021. He also asserts that the state court convictions are not yet final; state records confirm

that an appeal filed on August 24, 2021 remains pending. Regardless of whether the convictions are upheld

in state court, Defendant does not dispute that he violated ¶¶ 12 and 20 of the Decree.

In his response in opposition to the pending motion, Defendant admits that ¶ 12

prohibits him from property management activities, thereby requiring him to employ

someone else to engage in those activities for “any” rental properties – including those

properties held outside the Receivership. Rather than disputing any of the clear violations

of both ¶¶ 12 and 20, Defendant focuses on defending his actions, arguing that he “has

had issues maintaining managers due to COVD-19 [sic] and the small number of units

managed.” (Doc. 99 at PageID 5191).11 He excuses his violations on grounds that he

had contact with tenants “only after his hired manager had quit.” (Doc. 99 at 2). Other

than – for the first time - seeking “guidance” on “how to proceed…in the event a manager

quits,” (id. at 7), the response offers no reassurance that Defendant will avoid improper

communications in the future.

3. Defendants Have Failed to Retain an Independent Manager and Have

Violated Paragraphs 13, 14, and 16

As discussed, ¶ 12 of the Decree specifically enjoins John Klosterman “from

performing any property management responsibilities.” In order to avoid “directly or

indirectly” performing duties for “any” of his rental properties, Defendant was required to

hire someone else. Paragraph 13 specifically directs both John and Susan Klosterman

to employ an “Independent Manager,” and cites to ¶¶ 11 and 12 in defining the duties of

an Independent Manager that are applicable to “current or future rental properties.” The

United States argues that because neither of the Defendants have ever employed an

Independent Manager, they have violated ¶ 13.

11Defendants have never reached out to the United States for advice or assistance to the extent that

Defendants are now attempting to assert an “impossibility of performance” defense.

Muddying the waters somewhat, the language of ¶ 13 begins with prefatory

language that ties the timing of hiring an “Independent Manager” to events connected to

the Receivership, which again, the United States believed encompassed the entirety of

Defendants’ holdings based upon the affirmation made in ¶ 10.

13. Prior to obtaining an ownership interest in any future rental properties or

following termination of the Receivership should Defendants retain an ownership

interest in any of the current rental properties, Defendants will retain an

Independent Manager, to be approved in writing by the United States, to perform

all property management duties as described in paragraph 12 at any residential

rental property Defendants own, lease, or control, including subsequently-acquired

properties as set forth in Paragraph 11 (“current or future rental properties”). An

“Independent Manager” is an individual or entity reasonably experienced in

managing rental properties and who has no current or past employment, financial,

contractual, personal, or familial relationship with Defendants.

(Doc. 92 at ¶13, PageID 4891, emphasis added). The italicized language of ¶ 13 seems

to suggest that hiring an Independent Manager is based upon a contingent future event

in that it is required only when Defendants acquire “future rental properties” (after October

1, 2020) or if Defendants retain an ownership interest “following termination of the

Receivership” – an event that has not yet occurred.12

According to John Klosterman’s March 5 letter, he owned five additional properties

outside of the Receivership on October 1, 2020. However, he also admits to acquiring

an additional interest in 801 Delhi after October 1, by “buy[ing] out” a former business

partner. If for no other reason, Defendant’s admission that he acquired an additional

interest in 801 Delhi “in October” brings that property squarely into the “future rental

12Hamilton County Case No. A 1905588 reflects an Entry Adopting Magistrate’s decision and final decree

in foreclosure was filed on October 7, 2021. However, it is clear from the record that Receivership

proceedings continue. See Notice of Hearing on Amended Motion by Receiver to approve sale and sale

terms, filed 10/27/21.

property” category for which an Independent Manager was required under the narrowest

possible interpretation of ¶ 13.

Considering the equities involved in both Defendants’ misrepresentation in ¶ 10

and reading the entirety of the Decree as a whole, however, the undersigned does not

read the obligation to hire an Independent Manager in ¶ 13 to be as limited as a narrow

reading of the prefatory language might suggest. The parties and the Court expressed

the overarching intent of the Decree to apply to “all rental properties” (Decree, at ¶ 7).

Although the language of a contract must be interpreted according to the language used

by the parties (and the Court in this instance), Ohio law also provides that extrinsic

evidence may be considered “when the circumstances surrounding the agreement invest

the language of the contract with a special meaning.” Waste Management of Ohio, Inc.,

169 Fed. Appx. at 989. The language of ¶ 13 has such “special meaning” insofar as it

was based upon the foundational affirmation made by Defendants in ¶ 10, and should

therefore be construed to have the meaning intended. Alternatively, the undersigned

recommends that the express language of ¶ 13 be reformed as a “mutual mistake.”13

Thus, to fulfill the intent of the parties, the undersigned construes ¶ 13 as if written as

follows: “Prior to obtaining an ownership interest in any future rental properties or

following termination of the Receivership should Defendants retain an ownership interest

in any of the[ir] current rental properties, Defendants will retain an Independent

Manager….”

Independent of the construction of ¶ 13, the United States argues persuasively that

Defendants also have violated ¶ 16 of the Decree, which does not tie the hiring of an

13After all, even Mr. Klosterman maintains that the false affirmation was a “mistake.”

Independent Manager to any particular event in time, but instead requires Defendants to

perform eight specific duties through an Independent Manager for all “current or future

rental properties.” Because Defendants failed to hire an Independent Manager at any

point, they have not complied with duties required of the Independent Manager for all of

their properties, including those held outside the Receivership. In pertinent part, ¶ 16

states as follows:

16. Defendants shall do the following through the Independent Manager for any

current or future rental properties:

a. Implement, subject to the United States’ approval, a written policy against

sexual harassment, including a formal complaint procedure….

b. Ensure that any persons who will be performing any duties with respect to

future rental properties are familiar with the requirements of the FHA…and this

Decree.

c. Post an “Equal Housing Opportunity” sign in any rental office….14

d. Require that all advertising…include either a fair housing logo, the words “equal

housing opportunity provider,” and/or the following sentence: [specific wording

that connotes the lessor is an equal housing provider]….

e. Send to the United States within 30 days after the effective date of this Decree,

and every six months thereafter…, a list of all tenants at future properties and

their addresses.

f. Maintain all rental records… and allow the United States to inspect and copy

such records….

g. Provide any information reasonably related to compliance with this Decree that

is requested by the United States.

h. Notify the United States in the event the Independent Manager obtains any

information indicating that Defendant John Klosterman is in violation of this

Consent Decree or the Fair Housing Act….

14In his March 5, 2020 letter, Defendant states that Defendants’ manager (who was not a qualified

“Independent Manager”) would be posting “Posters” in the near future, by March 8, 2021. (Doc. 95-2 at 6).

The United States concedes that the reference may be to the requirement in ¶ 16(c) that an Independent

Manager post Equal Housing Opportunity posters. However, Defendants have never provided confirmation

of the content of the posters or whether they were in fact posted at all properties.

(Doc. 92 at 4-5, ¶ 16, PageID 4981-82).

Defendants also have violated Paragraph 14, which contains a notification

procedure for any time in which the Defendants seek to change from one Independent

Manager to the next.

14. If, after retaining an Independent Manager, Defendants wish to change the

Independent Manager for any reason, they shall submit the name of the

prospective manager, in writing, to the United States for written approval at least

ten (10) days prior to retaining the individual or entity, except in the event of an

emergency. If there is a need to retain an Independent Manager on an emergency

basis, Defendants shall submit the name of the manager, in writing, to the United

States within 48 hours.

(Doc. 92 at 4, PageID 4981).

In his March 5, 2021 letter as well as in his response in opposition to the Motion to

Enforce the Decree, John Klosterman asserts that he has tried to comply with ¶¶ 13-16

by engaging at least five property managers since August 1, 2020: NCN Property

Maintenance (“NCN”) (August 1, 2020 to November 2020); Zell Hatfield (in or around

November 2020 to March 3, 2021); Amy Mcintire (March 6, 2021 through an unknown

end date); Sharri Rammelsburg (beginning April 2021 through an unknown end date);

and Judy Tausch (beginning June 24, 2021). (Docs. 95-2 at 3-6, 95-3, 95-4; see also

Doc. 99 at 3, 6). In addition, Defendant states that he “has hired and is submitting for

approval… Karen Goodman” as his Independent Manager. (Doc. 99 at 6, PageID 5195).

Other than claiming that he has tried to hire managers, Defendant does not dispute the

well-supported contentions of the United States that he has never employed an

Independent Manager and that no one has performed the eight requirements of ¶ 16.

(See Doc. 99 at 4, arguing that Defendant “has acted in good faith…if not the letter [of

the Decree] by hiring Independent Managers.”). It is also undisputed that prior to

proposing Ms. Goodman in response to the pending motion, Defendants made no attempt

to gain advance approval for any of the alleged managers, and none were actually

approved by the United States.

The United States points out that Defendant has admitted that Ms. Hatfield is a

current tenant, and that Ms. Mcintire was a prospective tenant. After Defendant

mentioned Ms. Rammelsburg in his responsive memorandum, the United States

interviewed her. By Ms. Rammelsburg’s own admission, she is unqualified to serve as

an Independent Manager because she was performing some (but not all) of the property

management functions as a personal favor based upon her friendship with John

Klosterman. (Doc. 95-5 at 4-5; see also Doc. 95-10 at 2, PageID 5168). Judy Tausch

was not an Independent Manager because Defendant admits she is his sister. (Doc. 95-

4).15 Finally, on October 5, 2021, the United States spoke with Ms. Goodman and learned

that she also has a personal relationship with Mr. Klosterman through her son, who is an

inmate incarcerated together with Defendant. (Doc. 95, PageID 5005). That relationship,

including Defendant’s promise to provide housing to Ms. Goodman’s son once he is

released from jail, precludes her from serving as an Independent Manager.16 In addition,

while Ms. Goodman agreed to collect some (but not all) rents on Defendant’s behalf, she

expressly declined to serve as his property manager. (Doc. 100-4). In sum, Defendants

have violated ¶¶ 13, 14, and 16 by failing to employ an Independent Manager, by failing

15The State of Ohio alleges in a motion to revoke bond that Ms. Tausch, at Defendant’s direction interfered

with the Receivership by posing as an “investor” interested in the properties and speaking with a tenant.

Ohio v. Klosterman, Case Nos. 20CRB17905, 20CRB18773, 20CRB19488, 20CRB21069A, B,

20CRB21168, Motion to Revoke Bond, June 25, 2021).

16According to the United States, Ms. Goodman admitted she is in regular communication with Defendant,

that he dictates her interactions with tenants and that he retains authority over property management

responsibilities. The United States has confirmed those communications through its review of recordings

of jail telephone calls.

to notify or seek approval from the United States for any of the alleged managers, by

changing managers frequently without notice to the United States or advance approval,

and by failing to have any of the managers perform the eight duties set forth in ¶ 16.

4. Defendants and Their Agents or Employees Failed to Complete Fair

Housing Act Training Under Paragraphs 22 and 23

The United States argues that Defendants also violated their duties under Section

V of the Consent Decree, captioned “EDUCATION AND TRAINING.” These violations

are undisputed. Paragraph 22 directs Defendants to obtain Fair Housing Act training,

while ¶ 23 mandates training for Defendants’ agents and employees. The precise

language states, in relevant part:

22. Within 30 days of acquiring an ownership interest in any future rental property

or following termination of the Receivership should Defendants retain an

ownership interest in any of the current rental properties, Defendants will attend

an in-person training delivered face-to-face or via video conferencing with

synchronous instruction on the Fair Housing Act, including the Act’s provisions

related to sexual harassment, other forms of sex discrimination, and discriminatory

statements. The trainer or training entity must be qualified to perform such training,

must be independent of Defendants, and must be approved in advance by the

United States. Defendants will bear the cost of any expenses associated with this

training. ….Defendants will send a copy of these certificates [of attendance] to

counsel for the United States within 10 business days of the training.

23. During the effective period of this Decree, all new agents or employees of

Defendants, including agents or employees of the Independent Manager, who are

involved in showing, renting, managing or maintaining any residential rental

properties owned, managed, or operated by Defendants, and all employees or

agents who supervise such persons, shall, within 30 days of commencing an

employment or agency relationship with Defendants or the Independent Manager,

be provided the training described in Paragraph 22, or participate in an online

training on the Fair Housing Act, including the Act’s provisions related to sexual

harassment and other forms of sex discrimination. The online training program

must be approved in advance by the United States. New employees who are

provided online training will participate in an in-person training as described in

Paragraph 22, within one year of commencing an employment or agency

relationship with Defendants. Defendants will send a copy of the certificates of

training…to counsel for the United States within 10 business day s of said training.

(Doc. 92 at 6-7, ¶¶22-23, PageID 4983-84 (emphasis added)).

The undersigned notes that ¶ 22 includes prefatory language similar to ¶ 13, which

(if narrowly construed) suggests that the timeframe for Defendants to complete the

requisite Fair Housing Act training begins to run only after acquisition of a “future rental

property or following termination of the Receivership.” If so construed, the obligation to

complete Fair Housing Act training was nevertheless triggered when Defendant acquired

an additional ownership interest in 801 Delhi after entry of the Decree. However,

consistent with ¶ 13 and based upon the admitted false affirmation made in ¶ 10, the

undersigned concludes that ¶ 22 should be construed more broadly. Thus, ¶ 22 should

either be interpreted or reformed to reflect the parties’ and this Court’s intent, to capture

all current (as of October 1, 2020) and future rental properties owned or controlled by

Defendants. As reformed, ¶ 22 would state in relevant part: “Within 30 days of acquiring

an ownership interest in any future rental property or following termination of the

Receivership should Defendants retain an ownership interest in any of the[ir] current

rental properties, Defendants will attend an in-person training delivered face-to-face or

via video conferencing with synchronous instruction on the Fair Housing Act ….” Under

this interpretation, Defendants’ obligation to take the Fair Housing Act training began to

run on the date of the Decree.

Neither of the Defendants ever sought the United States’ approval for any Fair

Housing Act training, or completed any such training. John Klosterman admits as much.

(Doc. 99 at 4; see also Doc. 92-5 at 4 and 6, email in which Defendant states that he

“signed up for a course Sexual Harassment [sic] class” in January 2021, but never took it

due to “billing issues.”). In prior correspondence with Mr. Klosterman, the United States

explained that the on-line course that he claimed to have signed up for (but never took)

did not satisfy the terms of the Decree in part because the course description indicated it

was geared toward workplace harassment, and was not training that was relevant to the

Fair Housing Act. (Doc. 95-5 at 4). In his response to the pending motion, Defendant

complains that he has not been able to obtain training since he was taken into custody

on state court criminal charges. Whether Defendant is presently prohibited from video

training remains unclear. However, Defendant had more than 10 months to obtain

training before he was incarcerated, and does not deny that he never sought approval for

any training.

Defendants also have violated ¶ 23 because none of the employees, agents, or

managers hired to perform duties at the five rental properties held outside of the

Receivership have taken the Fair Housing Act training required. Unlike ¶ 22, there is no

ambiguity that would suggests that the obligation set forth in ¶ 23 is contingent on some

future event. Instead, ¶ 23 expressly applies to all “agents or employees of Defendants,”

and to “any residential rental properties” owned, leased, or controlled by Defendants at

any time during the term of the Decree.

5. Defendants Have Failed to Pay Monetary Damages into an Escrow

Account in Violation of Paragraphs 27-32 of the Decree

The last set of provisions that Defendants have violated is contained in Section VI

of the Decree, captioned “MONETARY DAMAGES.” In ¶¶ 25-26, Defendants were

required to pay a total of $162,500 up front, with payments divided between the United

States, for the benefit of a list of aggrieved persons, and Plaintiff-Intervenor HOME. (Id.

at PageID 4984). Defendants also were required to pay a civil penalty of $2,500. (Id. at

¶ 39). According to the United States, “Defendants’ insurer made a majority of [the initial]

payment on behalf of Defendants.” (Doc. 95 at 9, n.3).

Notwithstanding the completion of those initial payments, Defendants failed to

comply with additional terms that required them to pay an additional $15,000 in damages

in three installments of $5,000, to be deposited over the course of one year into an

interest-bearing escrow account. (See Doc. 92 at ¶ 27). The first installment of $5,000

was to have been deposited within six months of the Decree, not later than April 1, 2021.

(Id. at ¶28). Two additional $5,000 deposits were to have been made quarterly, not later

than July 1 and October 1, 2021. The Decree requires Defendants to provide proof that

each of the installment payments have been made into the escrow account as specified

by the Decree. (See, e.g., Doc. 92 at ¶ 28, “Within 5 business days of the establishment

of the Escrow Account, the Defendants shall submit proof to the United States that the

account has been established and the funds deposited”; id. at ¶ 30, requiring the

submission of similar proof after each quarterly deposit).

The record reflects that Defendants made some attempt to complete the initial

payment due on April 1, 2021, when they sent the United States a personal check in the

amount of $5,000 on March 29, 2021. However, the United States returned Defendants’

check and explained in an April 6, 2021 letter that it did not meet the terms of the Decree,

because the Decree clearly requires Defendants to establish and deposit the money into

an interest bearing escrow account. (Doc. 95-5 at 8; Doc. 95-10 at 3 and 10). The letter

explains in detail the requirements of ¶¶ 27-32, including the requirement to “establish an

interest-bearing escrow account and deposit the money owed there, providing proof of

these deposits to the United States.” (Id.)

In an email response dated April 23, 2021, John Klosterman states that Susan

Klosterman “tried to set up an escrow account at 5th bank [sic] and was told they only do

it for mortgages with the bank, so I am going to ask her to setup a separate saving account

at 5th 3rd today for the collection [of] the $15,000.00.” (Doc. 95-8, PageID 5165). In a

separate email later that same day, Defendant states “Sue Klosterman opened the

savings account,” and that “[t]here is $5,000.00 in the account.” (Doc. 95-10 at 7, PageID

5173). However, via responsive email on May 6, 2021, the United States explained again

that “[w]hile we appreciate this effort…, this deposit does not comply with the

requirements of the Consent Decree,” and emphasized that the deposit must be placed

“into an interest-bearing escrow account” with “proof of this deposit to the United

States.” (Doc. 95-10 at 3, PageID 5169 (emphasis original)).

In emails dated June 24, 2021 and again on July 4, 2021, Defendant claimed to

have resolved the deficiency regarding the “escrow” account. (See Doc. 95-4, stating

“that 5/3 Bank had made a mistake in not putting the $5000.00 into the escrow account,

which is corrected”; Doc. 95-6, stating that “we have deposited the 2nd $5,000.00 in the

5/3 escrow savings account.”) (emphasis added). But in his response in opposition to the

pending motion, Defendant now admits that there is still no escrow account, attempting

to excuse the deficiency on grounds that he “could not set up this account because of

house arrest.” (Doc. 99 at 5).

Two weeks prior to her death, on October 5, 2021, Susan Klosterman sent the

United States a copy of a deposit slip, showing that a total of $15,000.00 has been

deposited into a savings account that is not an escrow account. (Doc. 100-5). The

United States has repeatedly explained that, while it appreciates Defendants’ attempted

payment, Defendants have not complied with the requirement that Defendants establish

and make payments into an interest-bearing escrow account, and have failed to identify

any plan to transfer funds to such an escrow account. The “escrow account” distinction

is a material term of the Decree. A savings account remains under Defendants’ control,

allowing Defendants to draw on it at any time. By contrast, an escrow account ensures

that the money deposited cannot be removed except to compensate the identified victims

of Mr. Klosterman’s sexual harassment, as set forth in the Decree. The unrebutted

evidence submitted by the United States demonstrates that the deposits made by Susan

Klosterman prior to her death were made to a savings account and not to an escrow

account.

III. Defendant John Klosterman individually, and as Beneficiary of the

Estate of Susan Klosterman, Should be Held in Contempt and

Required to Comply with the Imposition of Additional Injunctive and

Monetary Relief

A court may find and enter civil contempt as “a sanction to enforce compliance with

an order of the court or to compensate for losses or damages sustained by reason of

noncompliance.” McComb v. .Jacksonville Paper Co., 336 U.S. 187, 191 (1949); see also

United States v. Bayshore Assocs., Inc., 934 F.2d 1391, 1400 (6th Cir. 1991) (“[T]he

purpose of civil contempt is to coerce an individual to perform an act or to compensate

an injured complainant.”). However, civil contempt may be imposed only if there is “clear

and convincing evidence” that the opposing party knowingly “violated a definite and

specific order of the court.” NLRB v. Cincinnati Bronze, Inc., 829 F.2d 585, 591 (6th Cir.

1987) (quotation and brackets omitted). “[W]hen deciding whether a court order is ‘definite

and specific,’ courts must construe any ambiguity in favor of the party charged with

contempt.” Gascho v. Global Fitness Holdings, LLC, 875 F.3d 795, 800 (6th Cir. 2017).

Based upon Defendants’ failure to comply with the referenced provisions, the

United States seeks an Order holding both Defendants in civil contempt. For the reasons

discussed above, the undersigned finds that the United States has offered clear and

convincing evidence that Defendant John Klosterman failed to comply with multiple

“definite and specific” provisions of the Decree.17 Clear and convincing evidence also

shows that prior to her death, Susan Klosterman also failed to comply with many of the

same provisions. From the moment that both Defendants signed the Decree, they

concealed their ownership of rental properties outside of the Receivership, undermining

foundational provisions of injunctive relief. At every turn, Defendants either ignored key

provisions or made (at best) half-hearted attempts to comply after being called out on

their violations by the United States.

To the extent that John Klosterman presently asserts an “impossibility” defense as

an excuse for his failure to comply with any portion of the Decree, the undersigned rejects

that defense because Defendant has failed to carry his burden of proof that he cannot

comply. Once the movant has demonstrated a violation of the Consent Decree, “the onus

shifts to the opposing party to demonstrate that it was unable to comply with the court's

order.” Gascho, 875 F.3d at 800. “But to show impossibility, [the defendant] has the

burden to demonstrate that (1) [he] was unable to comply with the court's order, (2) [his]

inability to comply was not self-induced, and (3) [he] took ‘all reasonable steps’ to

comply.” Id., 875 F.3d at 802 (additional citation omitted).

17In Gascho, the Sixth Circuit held that an injunctive command that is based upon a contingency or future

event that has not yet occurred is not sufficiently definite to be enforceable through an order of contempt.

Id., 875 F.3d at 801. The undersigned distinguishes the interpretation of ¶¶ 13 and 22 from Gascho insofar

as Defendant’s “buy out” of 801 Delhi in October 2020 rendered the obligations expressly contained in

those provisions unequivocal, even if a reviewing court were to disagree with the undersigned’s alternate

interpretation and/or reformation of the terms contained therein.

Defendant’s response in opposition to the motion does not seriously contest the

facts presented by the United States but instead suggests that his multiple failures to

comply with the Decree should be excused because he made some attempts to comply,

and did not intend to make the false affirmation in ¶ 10. However, “the test is not whether

defendants made a good faith effort at compliance but whether ‘the defendants took all

reasonable steps within their power to comply with the court’s order.’” Glover v. Johnson,

934 F.2d 703, 708 (6th Cir. 1991) (citing Peppers v. Barry, 873 F.2d 967, 969 (6th Cir.

1989)). Defendant John Klosterman now claims to be unable to set up the escrow

account or to take the required training due to his incarceration. But his incarceration is

a self-induced condition that did not occur until 10 months after the entry of the Decree.

He has not demonstrated impossibility of performance or that he took “all reasonable

steps” to comply prior to his incarceration. For example, there is no evidence that Susan

Klosterman, who made deposits to a savings account prior to her death, could not have

arranged for transfer of the deposited funds to an escrow account. On the record

presented, the undersigned concludes that Defendant John Klosterman in particular has

exhibited a laisse fare attitude toward the Decree that prioritizes personal profit and

convenience to him. While Defendants made modest attempts to comply with the Decree,

they continually ignored “the letter” of provisions that were difficult or inconvenient.

John Klosterman’s suggestion that he didn’t understand all the terms of the Decree

at the time he signed it is no excuse for non-compliance, just as Susan Klosterman’s

actions or inactions prior to her untimely death did not excuse her non-compliance.18 If

18Defendants previously moved for partial summary judgment on all claims against Susan Klosterman,

arguing that she should not be held vicariously liable for her husband’s conduct and should not be held

directly liable based upon her own actions. (Doc. 62). The United States vigorously opposed the motion

both on grounds that Susan Klosterman had an ownership interest “in all but one of the properties at which

Defendants did not receive a copy of the Decree at the outset (a highly doubtful claim),

Defendants easily could have obtained a copy from the United States or from the Court.

Indeed, the United States provided Defendants with a copy of the Decree during its

unfruitful attempts to persuade Defendants to comply with its terms prior to finally filing a

motion. The parties’ correspondence during the months in which the United States

attempted to bring Defendants into compliance illustrates Defendants’ willingness to

disregard the clear provisions of the Decree even when the United States took great pains

to highlight the areas of deficiency.

A court has the authority to enforce a consent decree it has entered by ordering

any remedies necessary to cure the violations. See generally, Peacock v. Thomas, 516

U.S. 349, 356 (1996). Upon a finding of civil contempt, a Court may order a “fine or

imprisonment, or both, at its discretion.” 18 U.S.C. § 401(3). “The measure of the Court’s

power in civil contempt proceedings is determined by the requirements of full remedial

relief.” NLRB v. Aquabrom, 855 F.2d 1174, 1182 (6th Cir. 1958). “When a court imposes

fines and punishments on a contemnor, it is not only vindicating its legal authority to enter

the initial court order, but it also is seeking to give effect to the law’s purpose of modifying

the contemnor’s behavior to conform to the terms required in the order.” Int’l Union United

Mine Workers of Am. V. Bagwell, 512 U.S. 821, 828 (1994). A finding of civil contempt is

reviewed only for abuse of discretion. Roles Watch USA, Inc. v. Crowley, 74 F.3d 716,

721 (6th Cir. 1996).

Defendant John Klosterman harassed female tenants,” and “directly collected rent from at least one of the

tenants that John Klosterman sexually harassed,” among other arguments concerning the parties’ agency

relationship. (Doc. 68). The Consent Decree, signed by Susan Klosterman, rendered the motion moot.

In light of the violations presented, the undersigned concludes that additional

measures are necessary to ensure compliance with the Consent Decree. The United

States persuasively argues that those measures should include prospective contempt

fines for each day in which John Klosterman remains out of compliance, as well as

additional injunctive relief as to that Defendant. With minor modifications to the relief

proposed by the United States, the undersigned agrees that both fines and additional

injunctive relief should be included in the Contempt Order. Particularly imperative, in light

of the Defendants’ false affirmation in ¶ 10, is a requirement for John Klosterman to

provide the United States with a complete list of all residential properties owned, leased,

or controlled by either of the Klostermans, either directly or indirectly, beginning on

October 1, 2020 and continuing to the present day.

In addition to the additional monetary and injunctive relief, the United States seeks

an extension of the Decree. The original Decree was to have remained in effect for a

period of five years. The Decree specifically provides that “[t]he United States may move

the Court to extend the period in which this Order [the Decree] is in effect if one or more

Defendants violates one or more terms of the Decree or if the interests of justice so

require.” (Doc. 92 at 11, ¶ 42, PageID 4988). Both as punishment for the lengthy period

of time in which Defendants continued to violate the Decree and to dissuade Defendant

John Klosterman from additional noncompliance, the undersigned recommends that the

original five-year term of the Decree be extended.

IV. Conclusion and Recommendations

Based upon the above analysis, IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT:

1. Plaintiff’s Motion to Substitute John Klosterman for Defendant Susan Klosterman,

(Doc. 101), should be GRANTED;

2. Plaintiff’s Motion to Enforce the Consent Decree, as construed as a motion to re-

open this case to Enforce the Consent Decree (Doc. 95) should be GRANTED;

3. The Court should enter a finding of civil contempt against both Defendant John

Klosterman individually and as substitute for Susan Klosterman, and shall include

the following provisions in the Contempt Order;

a. The term of the October 1, 2020 Decree should be extended until July 1, 2026;

b. The prefatory language in ¶ 13 and ¶ 22 of the October 1, 2020 Decree should

be interpreted and/or formally reformed in the manner discussed above;

c. The following prospective monetary sanctions should be added to the terms of

the original October 1, 2020 Decree:

i. $100 per day shall be paid to the United States if, within ten days of the

Court’s Contempt Order, Defendant John Klosterman has not proposed to

the United States a professional Independent Manager who has experience

with property management and does not have a personal relationship with

Defendants, pursuant to paragraph 13 of the Decree. Such daily fine shall

continue until John Klosterman has made a proposal that complies with the

requirements of ¶ 13, but should not exceed thirty (30) days absent further

Order of this Court;

ii. $100 per day shall be paid to the United States if, within ten (10) days of this

Court’s Contempt Order, Defendant John Klosterman has not proposed to

the United States Fair Housing Act training for himself and for any employees

and agents pursuant to ¶¶ 22 and 23 of the Decree. Such daily fine shall

continue until Defendant has made a proposal that complies with the

requirements of the Decree,19 but should not exceed thirty (30) days absent

further Order of this Court;

iii. $100 per day shall be paid to the United States if, within ten (10) days of this

Court’s Contempt Order, Defendant John Klosterman has not completed

deposits of $15,000.00 into an escrow account, with proof of the deposit

demonstrated in the manner specified in paragraph 30 of the Decree. Such

daily fine shall continue until Defendant has provided the required

verification, but should not exceed thirty (30) days absent further Order of this

Court;

iv. $500 per incident shall be paid to the United States as an additional fine if,

on any occasion following the Court’s entry of a Contempt Order, Defendant

John Klosterman engages in property management responsibilities that are

specifically prohibited by the terms of the Decree. The same fine of $500 per

incident should be imposed if Defendant communicates with tenants or

prospective tenants in violation of the Decree following the Court’s entry of a

Contempt Order. However, the fine(s) specified in this paragraph shall not

exceed a total of $5,000 absent further Order of this Court, and may be

excused upon clear and convincing evidence by John Klosterman that

19The United States shall review John Klosterman’s contention that he cannot comply with the training

requirement during his incarceration. If no training is possible for John Klosterman at this time, the parties

shall employ their best efforts to propose a reasonable modification of ¶ 22 for John Klosterman alone, and

shall so notify the Court.

communication was required on an emergency basis, such as a condition

impacting the ability of a tenant’s home;

d. Within ten (10) days of the date of the Contempt Order, John Klosterman shall

be required to provide to the United States a complete list of all rental properties

that John and/or Susan Klosterman have owned, leased, managed, or

otherwise controlled (directly or indirectly) beginning on October 1, 2020

through the present date. Said list shall be verified with a declaration made

under penalty of perjury pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 1746 in order to ensure that

the United States has a complete list of past and current holdings;

e. Within ten (10) days of the date of the Contempt Order, Defendant John

Klosterman shall provide to the United States a full accounting of incomes and

expenses at all properties owned, leased, managed or controlled by

Defendants outside of the Receivership since October 1, 2020, including bank

records, rent receipts, and receipts for any expenses for the maintenance of

the properties which Defendants maintain should be deducted from the

calculation of profits. Following receipt of this information, the United States

may, in its discretion, move the Court to require Defendants to pay rental profits

into a fund for the Independent Manager’s maintenance of the properties, to

restore the parties to the position that they would have been in but for

Defendants’ noncompliance with the Decree, and to ensure that sufficient funds

are available for property management going forward;

f. Within ten (10) days of the date of the Contempt Order, and every ninety (90)

days thereafter for the duration of the Decree, Defendant John Klosterman shall

file with this Court a certification affirmatively stating that he has complied with

all Decree requirements including but not limited to the additional requirements

entered with the Contempt Order;

g. The requirement for the parties to endeavor in good faith to resolve informally

any differences regarding interpretation of and compliance with the Decree, as

set forth in ¶ 46 of the October 1, 2020 Decree, shall continue along with all

other provisions unless modified by the Contempt Order. Paragraph 46

includes, but is not limited to, resolution of any future defense of impossibility

of performance.

s/ Stephanie K. Bowman

Stephanie K. Bowman

United States Magistrate Judge

UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT

SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF OHIO

WESTERN DIVISION

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, Case No. 1:18-cv-194

Plaintiff, and Barrett, J.

Bowman, M.J.

HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES

MADE EQUAL INC.,

Plaintiff-Intervenor,

v.

JOHN KLOSTERMAN and

SUSAN KLOSTERMAN,

Defendants.

NOTICE

Pursuant to Fed. R. Civ. P. 72(b), any party may serve and file specific, written

objections to this Report & Recommendation (“R&R”) within FOURTEEN (14) DAYS after

being served with a copy thereof. That period may be extended further by the Court on

timely motion by either side for an extension of time. All objections shall specify the

portion(s) of the R&R objected to, and shall be accompanied by a memorandum of law in

support of the objections. A party shall respond to an opponent’s objections within

FOURTEEN DAYS after being served with a copy of those objections. Failure to make

objections in accordance with this procedure may forfeit rights on appeal. See Thomas

v. Arn, 474 U.S. 140 (1985); United States v. Walters, 638 F.2d 947 (6th Cir. 1981).