OGDEN, Utah — A woman from Ogden was recently evicted from her apartment after claiming her landlord refused to accept rental assistance, forcing her to move into a motel. Julie Seppich, who was living at Canyon View Living, says her eviction, which occurred on February 18, was not only distressing but also left her without many of her belongings, including a cherished family picture and personal items.
The chaotic eviction was caught on cell phone video by her son, Joshua Seppich, who was arrested during the incident but later released without charges. Julie Seppich described the experience as emotionally difficult, stating, “It was hard. I kind of was sold a dream — this place doesn’t like me because I ask too many questions.”
Julie, who claims to be one of the complex’s first tenants, also said that Canyon View Living had been plagued with numerous issues since she moved in. According to Julie, her rental company, TEC Management, refused to accept rental assistance she was receiving through disability benefits. Instead of working with her, Julie alleges they opted to evict her.
“I just want my clothes back. I have one pair of pants, two bags of clothing, I have flip flops in the winter,” Seppich said, describing her current situation living in a motel.
In response to the eviction, Julie and her son filed a lawsuit against TEC Management. The lawsuit claims wrongful eviction and disputes the company’s refusal to accept the rental assistance meant to cover her rent. The eviction, she argues, was a violation of her rights and has caused unnecessary hardship.
KUTV reached out to TEC Management for comment, specifically asking for an explanation of the eviction and whether Julie would be able to recover her belongings. In a brief statement, TEC Management declined to provide any details, citing ongoing litigation. “This has ongoing litigation and we decline to comment,” the statement read.
Julie Seppich said that she was told her belongings, including the sentimental family photograph, were no longer available for retrieval. She has expressed concern about the financial and emotional toll the eviction has taken on her, especially given her reliance on disability assistance.
As of now, the lawsuit is still making its way through the court system, and Julie’s fight for justice continues. The case has raised questions about tenant rights, especially for those who depend on rental assistance, and whether landlords are legally obligated to accept such payments.
This incident highlights the complex issues facing renters and landlords, especially when it comes to navigating the terms of rental assistance and eviction laws. As the case unfolds, the outcome may provide further clarity on the rights of tenants in similar situations.