David Merryman, a landlord notorious for the deplorable conditions of his properties and years of racial harassment toward Black tenants, was sentenced to 17 years in prison on Dec. 18. The sentencing, delivered by Senior U.S. District Judge Raymond A. Jackson, capped a yearslong investigation into Merryman’s fraudulent schemes and abusive conduct. The judge described his actions as “heinous,” highlighting how Merryman exploited low-income tenants in Newport News and Hampton, Virginia, many of whom had few housing options.