A long-running commercial lease dispute in South Los Angeles is escalating into a public and legal battle, as the owner of The District by GS restaurant on Crenshaw Boulevard challenges an eviction attempt he says threatens to shut down his business.
Tyrei Lacy, who has operated the restaurant for about seven years, is accusing his landlord, Fred Leeds Properties, of attempting to remove him without cause. The landlord has filed claims related to alleged unpaid rent and fees, which Lacy disputes in court.
Dispute
According to documents shared by Lacy, Fred Leeds Properties issued a delinquency notice on November 11, 2024. The landlord previously sued Lacy for nearly $800,000 in alleged back rent and fees, a case that was later dismissed on May 8, 2026, according to court records provided by Lacy.
Despite the dismissal of that lawsuit, the eviction dispute remains active. Fred Leeds Properties did not respond to requests for comment.
Lacy maintains that he signed a long-term lease and has consistently paid rent, arguing that the eviction effort is not justified under the terms of the agreement.
Restaurant
The District by GS opened in 2019 in the Crenshaw District. Lacy says he invested roughly $750,000 into renovating the space before opening and signed what he describes as a 20-year lease with the property owner.
The restaurant has become a local gathering place, and supporters say it represents part of ongoing efforts to maintain independently owned businesses in the area.
Public Response
On June 17, Lacy held a press conference outside the restaurant to draw attention to the dispute. Community members, local advocates, and business supporters attended the event.
During the gathering, Lacy questioned whether the eviction attempt reflected broader patterns affecting small businesses in commercial areas undergoing redevelopment. He encouraged supporters to stand with the business as the legal process continues.
Local advocacy organizations, including Strategic Actions for a Just Economy (SAJE), highlighted broader concerns about protections for small commercial tenants. Representatives noted that many small business owners operate without strong legal safeguards in lease disputes.
Political Context
Los Angeles City Council District 10 representatives have indicated that the city is considering additional protections for commercial tenants. Proposed measures include an ordinance aimed at preventing harassment and unfair displacement of small and minority-owned businesses.
Supporters of the effort argue that rising rents and redevelopment pressures have increased the risk of displacement for long-standing local businesses.
Similar Cases
During the press conference, another business owner, Al Lewis, said he previously operated Ameci Pizza in a nearby property also managed by Fred Leeds Properties. Lewis said he invested significant funds into his restaurant before being forced to vacate after a court dispute.
He said the experience left him with financial losses, including debt tied to his personal assets. Lewis said he decided to speak publicly to support Lacy and share his own experience with the landlord.
Ongoing Fight
Lacy said he continues to pursue legal action to remain at the location while the dispute is resolved in court. He emphasized that the outcome will determine the future of his business and livelihood.
“I’m going to fight this with every bone in my body,” Lacy said during the press conference, underscoring the stakes of the ongoing case.
For now, the restaurant remains open as the legal process continues.
FAQs
What is the dispute about?
It is a commercial eviction and lease disagreement between the restaurant owner and landlord.
How long has the restaurant operated?
The District by GS has been open since 2019.
What does the owner claim?
He says he has a long-term lease and has paid rent consistently.
Was there a lawsuit?
Yes, a previous rent-related lawsuit was dismissed in 2026.
Is the restaurant still open?
Yes, it remains open while the case is ongoing.
