NCJ Number
198312
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 71 Issue: 12 Dated: December 2002 Pages: 8-10
Date Published
December 2002
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article explains the law enforcement implications of the rules that govern public housing authorities (PHAs) in applicant screening and the termination of leases and suggests the establishment of a liaison between local PHAs and law enforcement agencies.
Abstract
In 1996 the Housing Opportunity Program Extension Act allowed PHAs to obtain criminal history records of tenants and applicants (with their consent) strictly for public housing screening and lease enforcement. Under this act, PHAs can deny applicants occupancy under the Section 8 voucher program, as well as public housing, if they engage in drug-related criminal activity or alcohol abuse. This law also mandates PHAs to deny assistance to people who have been evicted from federally assisted housing for drug crimes. The Antidrug Abuse Act of 1988 authorized PHAs to terminate leases for illegal drug or criminal activities committed by public housing residents. Further, PHAs can hold household members accountable for the actions of their guests. Law enforcement agencies should create a formal relationship with their local PHAs. This involves identifying the PHA's director and assigning one officer who has knowledge of crime in public or Section 8 housing to contact the PHA. Both the department and the PHA should explain their policies and procedures and agree on a schedule for regular communication. Police departments should request that a PHA representative have regular roll-call briefings for officers regarding suspected criminal activities by public housing residents. Police officers should also meet with PHA staff members regarding law enforcement actions that involve public-housing residents.