This American Bed Bug's Life

In our upcoming “Attorneys Survey” issue in November, we’ll introduce you to a lawyer who reveals a shocking secret: “Some of the richest buildings in New York City have bed bugs. They just don’t talk about them.”

Well, the condo board at 159 W. 24th Street is talking about them – and about rodents – in a lawsuit filed in Manhattan Supreme Court against Ira Glass, creator and star of National Public Radio’s “This American Life” series, and his wife, Anaheed Alani. The lawsuit claims the couple created “unsanitary conditions” in their $1.3 million apartment, which led to an “infestation” of bed bugs and rodents that began in June, the New York Post reports.

According to court documents, the couple hasn’t allowed the superintendent access to exterminate the apartment, and several unit-owners have vacated the building. Defects in an air conditioner, the kitchen sink, washing machine and dishwasher have allegedly led to leaks that damaged other apartments. The board is also demanding money from Glass to pay for repairs.

Alani said the lawsuit’s allegations were “not true.”