renewed lease, pending felony charges, what would you do?

Question

What would you do in this situation? we already renewed the lease and one of the neighbors says did you know there was a possession with intent charge in the paper at your address.  I check the records and yes there are pending charges.  We had heard of a police being at the house but this charge was not in the police log when I checked. I have already had the conversation with one tenant who is a student and he admits the charge but is trying for a reduction, other tenants are clear.   RI law does not allow a higher deposit. Any other actions you would take?

Adam Bartomeo · Answer

Does your lease state that there isn't any drugs allowed on the property. If so, and they admitted the they did, then I would think that you serve them with an eviction notice. That is some bad stuff to have at your property and you need to send a message to the other tenants. Drugs are not tolerated on your property and you will keep your good tenants safe from these types of individuals.

Colleen F. · Answer

@Jim Shepard  I  can do that  but  right now I was the issue is  proof.  Charge but no conviction there would need to be other grounds.   @Adam Bartomeo if I thought this was dealing they would be out.  I would find a legal way to do it.   He admitted that the police were at the house and to the arrest but didn't  want to go into details except to say he would fight it and it was him and a guest that were arrested. and then said what everyone says it  won't happen again.   I had no problems for many months prior.  @James Wise that is what I wound up doing as far as action since I don't have proof. The new roommates at least look ok and have serious majors which we have found to be a good predictor of a decent tenant.  We take a 9 month  hit if we evict since rentals are on the school cycle, even so I would do it if I was sure.  In any case we always keep close tabs on this property. Thanks

James Wise · Answer

At this moment I would do nothing. You do not have proof your tenant is dealing. After a conviction that would be proof the tenant is dealing and you can move to evict them for that reason.

renewed lease, pending felony charges, what would you do?

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