By Miriam Raftery

December 31, 2023 (El Cajon) – The City of El Cajon has filed a lawsuit against former Councilman Bessmon “Ben” Kalasho and his wife, Jessica Deddeh, for allegedly failing to address numerous code violations at an unauthorized bed and breakfast at the couple’s residence, NBC 7 reports.

According to the City’s complaint, the El Cajon residence has been listed on the Trivagosite as “The HIstorical Chamber House in East  San Diego with Optional Breakfast.” Code compliance officers found and photographed unpermitted construction of an outdoor stair, deck, and a second kitchen.

City code compliance investigators found violations on six visits from Sept.2019 to Jan.2022, the suite states. Multiple warning letters were sent and fines were levied, reaching $2,000 per day.  The total is now approximately $1.4 million.

The City is asking for injunctive relief including removing the unpermitted dwelling unit and movable properties within it sold under supervision of a court-appointed receiver. If rents and proceeds of selling the movable items do not cover the amount owed, the city asks the court to order that the home be sold.