They’ve had this home for almost 15 years and now they can’t sell it.
The news that my parents’ home in a suburban San Diego neighborhood was being hindered from selling by the presence of a registered sex offender living next door was shocking and infuriating. The buyers had an immediate cash offer for the asking price, but the sale collapsed after they met the neighbor and were informed of her husband’s criminal history. My parents had no idea that a convicted child molester was living next door, as the guy had been arrested, convicted, and served 7 years in jail for paying for sex with a minor and child sexual abuse material while they were living there.
My initial reaction was to lash out at the neighbor for inviting a child molester back into the neighborhood. I was tempted to text her something unhelpful and vindictive, but thankfully I resisted. I also jokingly offered to put up posters around town explaining that a rapist was living in the neighborhood, but again, that would not actually be helpful.
This entire situation was unbelievably frustrating and I felt helpless for my parents who had lived in this home for almost 15 years and now could not sell it. I wanted to find a solution that would help them, and I began researching options. I found that, depending on the laws in your state, a registered sex offender can be legally evicted if the landlord is made aware of their criminal history. Since the neighbor was renting, I was hopeful this could be a potential solution.
I contacted a local attorney to get more information and to find out if this was an option. I was informed that, unfortunately, the landlord could not evict the tenant; however, I was given additional information on the rights of a landlord in this situation. The landlord has the right to choose not to rent to a sex offender, and the law prohibits the landlord from retaliating against the tenant for reporting a sex offender.
With this new information, I contacted the landlord and explained the situation. I asked if they were aware of the tenant’s criminal record, and if they would be willing to terminate the lease and evict the tenant. The landlord was sympathetic to our situation, and agreed to look into the matter.
Much to our relief, the landlord decided to terminate the tenant’s lease and evict them from the premises. With the sex offender no longer living in the neighborhood, my parents were able to quickly sell their home at the asking price.
We were so relieved to have a resolution to this difficult situation. It was a reminder of the importance of being aware of the laws in your state, and that there are legal options available to help in difficult situations. We were especially thankful for the landlord’s understanding and willingness to take action to help us resolve the issue.