70-33-409. Unlawful ouster, exclusion, or diminution of services -- tenant's remedies. (1) If a landlord unlawfully removes or excludes the tenant from the premises or purposefully diminishes services to the tenant by interrupting or causing the interruption of running water, electricity, gas, or other essential services, the tenant may recover possession or terminate the rental agreement and, in either case, recover an amount of not more than 3 months' periodic rent or treble damages, whichever is greater.
     (2) If the rental agreement is terminated, the landlord shall return all security recoverable pursuant to Title 70, chapter 25, and any prepaid rent.

     History: En. Sec. 37, Ch. 267, L. 2007.