A recent incident in Aurora, Colo., has ignited discussions about tenant rights and landlord conduct after a viral video captured a dramatic confrontation between tenant Vontese Wines and her landlord, Elizaveta Andersen. The video, which has circulated widely on social media, shows Andersen claiming that Wines assaulted her, leading to a public outcry and a deeper examination of the events that transpired.
The incident unfolds
The altercation occurred on March 1, 2025, when Andersen arrived at Wines’ townhome unannounced, brandishing an eviction notice. This visit came just a day after Andersen had sent a text message indicating that the locks would be changed. Wines, who had been renting from Andersen since November 2024, reported that she was not given a chance to pay her rent before the confrontation escalated.
In the viral footage, Andersen can be seen collapsing to the ground — as if she had been hit — and claiming that Wines pushed her. A bystander recording the incident expressed disbelief at the situation, questioning Andersen’s actions. Wines recounted, “That’s when you see me turn away, and that’s when you see her fall on the floor,” adding that the entire ordeal left her feeling shaken and intimidated.
Legal implications
According to landlord-tenant attorney Steven Flaxman, Andersen’s actions may have violated tenant rights. He explained that the law typically allows landlords to charge a late fee only after the seventh calendar day of the month. Therefore, Andersen’s attempt to impose a late fee on the second of the month is considered an improper charge. This legal perspective sheds light on the broader implications of the incident, highlighting the importance of understanding tenant rights.
Wines’ experience
Wines described feeling pressured by Andersen to pay her rent in advance, often complying due to the landlord’s persistent texts. Despite her timely payments, the sudden eviction notice and Andersen’s aggressive approach left Wines feeling vulnerable. “I kind of thought she was trying to intimidate me because she had been texting me a lot prior. I was completely shocked,” Wines stated.
Following the confrontation, Wines and her family decided to move out, seeking a safer environment. “I feel a lot more safe over here,” she remarked as she settled into her new home. However, the situation escalated further when Andersen allegedly went to the police, claiming to be Wines, which led to confusion and further distress for the tenant.
Community response
The viral nature of the video has sparked conversations about the treatment of tenants, particularly in situations involving aggressive landlords. Many viewers have expressed solidarity with Wines, sharing their own experiences with similar “Karen-like” behavior from landlords. This incident has resonated with a broader audience, highlighting systemic issues within landlord-tenant relationships.
