Photo: Michael M. Santiago / Getty Images News / Getty Images
The New York State Attorney General's Office has reached a settlement with Syracuse landlords Harry and Brian Murphy over lead paint hazards in their properties. The father and son duo have agreed to pay $35,000 to children who suffered lead poisoning and spend $80,000 on lead-hazard inspections and repairs. If they fail to comply, they face an additional $80,000 fine.
The settlement comes after an investigation revealed that at least seven children suffered lead poisoning in homes owned by the Murphys. Between 2017 and 2025, the Murphys managed 78 properties, with 153 units, and were found to have more than 300 lead paint violations at 23 properties, according to the Syracuse.com. The properties are subject to annual lead hazard inspections, and the landlords must comply with all federal, state, and local lead safety regulations.
The settlement also establishes a tenant relief fund and mandates lead remediation plans for properties with lead hazards. The Murphys are required to complete interior lead remediation within 90 days and exterior repairs within 180 days of approval by the AG's office. The landlords can access grant funding for remediation but cannot secure more than a third of the total costs.
Attorney General Letitia James emphasized the importance of the settlement in addressing environmental racism and holding landlords accountable for housing violations. The Central Current reported that Syracuse has a significant lead poisoning issue, with nearly one in 10 children showing elevated blood lead levels in 2025.
This settlement marks the fourth time since 2022 that the AG's office has compelled Syracuse landlords to address lead paint hazards. Previous settlements involved landlords John Kiggins, William D’Angelo, and Todd Hobbs. The recent agreement with the Murphys sets a precedent for future enforcement actions and underscores the need for ongoing vigilance in ensuring safe housing conditions.