I think this is just an example of the predatory tactics of some big-city landlords. We were discussing this just yesterday, and how unlikely people were to fight back. I hope this woman's family not only wins the case, I hope that NYC somehow financially punishes the landlords in a significant enough way to make an impact.

Do not despair about humanity, the good people living ordinary and good lives never make the news ... unless they get hit by a meteorite !