What is a leasee’s liabilty regarding criminal activity in their rental?
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What is a leasee’s liabilty regarding criminal activity in their rental?
I leased a house but I never moved in because someone that I knew and who I do not want anything to do wit, took possession of the house. I want him out but I am fairly certain there is illegal activity going on. If I call the cops to have him removed, am I liable for whatever they find in the house?
Asked on June 7, 2013 under Criminal Law, Texas
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 10 years ago | Contributor
As long as you have nothing to do with any illegal activity that my be happening on the premises, then you bear no criminal responsibility for it, even if the lease is in your name. In fact, if it can be proven that you knew of such activity but did nothing about it, then you could be facing charges. However, there may or may not be other factors to be considered.
At this point, you may want to consult with a criminal law attoreny in your area to be fully apprised of your rights/responsibilities in thi situation. Paying for an hour or so of their time could well be worth it.
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