NYC Real Estate Executive Accused of Misconduct in Lawsuit

A lawsuit has emerged alleging that a senior figure in one of New York City’s premier real estate firms made inappropriate advances towards a new employee. The claims include a statement made by Paul Herman, the president of Brown Harris Stevens’ housing management, suggesting a kind of intimate involvement, saying, “I can be you if you want.”

In August 2022, Herman invited the employee, referred to as John Doe, to a Steakhouse and later to a restaurant known only as John Doe. During this encounter, Herman spoke about the death of his romantic partner, creating an unusually personal atmosphere.

Doe, who serves as vice president and managing director overseeing a prominent property on Central Park West, reported that during their meal, Herman allegedly touched his legs. The situation escalated when Herman invited Doe to his apartment.

At Herman’s residence, it was claimed that Doe was coerced into compromising situations, including being placed on his knees and forced to kiss Herman. Doe quickly objected, stating that Herman could “have a doe” and pressed him to clarify an inappropriate encounter involving a restaurant manager that supposedly happened in the living room, as noted in court documents.

Herman reportedly expressed that he could “be anyone,” and attempted to kiss Doe again before being rebuffed. Doe, now residing in Florida, described feeling pressured and uncomfortable during these incidents.

Further complicating matters, Herman instructed Doe to send an email recounting that they had a “nice dinner.” Doe, concerned about potential repercussions, expressed his fear in the legal documents.

Ultimately, Doe was dismissed from his position in May after voicing his concerns about the treatment he received.

Brown Harris Stevens, a company with extensive operations across the Tri-State area and in Miami and Palm Beach, reported a revenue exceeding $7.5 billion last year, according to RealTrends.

Herman has not responded to inquiries regarding this matter, and a voicemail from Brown Harris Stevens indicated he is “no longer involved” in the daily operations of the company. A spokesperson for the firm declined to make any comments on the situation.