Addicts often give landlords their paychecks and Social Security payments to help budget their money. These houses are a free-enterprise solution to a seemingly unsolvable social problem. And they don't always work. Interviews with more than 50 landlords, addicts, drug treatment experts, police, lawyers and code enforcement officials in the past four months reveal that some sober houses tolerate drug usage, lack supervision and operate without proper zoning approval. In worst cases, police are called to investigate thefts, assaults and suicidal behaviors.
Neighbors complain about noise, loitering and speeding cars.
And addicts get kicked out after arguing with landlords or relapsing. Marc Woods of Delray Beach, where at least seven sober houses are operating. The addicts often bring with them criminal records for drunken driving, drug possession and petty thefts. Some sober houses receive county and federal money to provide short-term housing for addicts. And like any business, you'll have bottom feeders and sleazy people who want to make a quick buck.