They brought dangerous people to our house

When addiction progresses, your child may bring people to your home who pose safety risks to your family. These associates often have criminal involvement, unpredictable behavior, and no respect for family boundaries. You may feel invaded in your own home and concerned about the safety of other family members.

Immediate security actions:

• Change all locks immediately—don't delay this step
• Install security systems, cameras, or doorbell cameras if financially possible
• Remove all spare keys from accessible locations (under mats, fake rocks, etc.)
• Consider upgrading to deadbolts and reinforced door frames
• Install motion-sensor lighting around entry points
• Document any individuals who have been to your home for potential trespassing orders

Establishing home access rules:

• No visitors during active addiction—this is non-negotiable for family safety
• No giving out address or directions to your home to anyone
• No bringing people inside the home without prior family approval
• No loitering or hanging out in driveways, yards, or common areas
• Immediate consequences for rule violations include temporary removal from home

Communication strategies with your child:

• "Our home is not available as a gathering place as long as addiction is active"
• "We love you, but we won't risk our family's safety for anyone"
• "When you're in recovery, we can discuss appropriate visiting privileges"
• "These rules protect everyone, including you"
• Don't negotiate or make exceptions—safety is non-negotiable

Legal protection options:

• File trespassing reports with local police for repeat offenders
• Obtain restraining orders against specific dangerous individuals
• Document all incidents with photos, videos, and written reports
• Consider consulting with family law attorney about legal protections
• Work with local police to establish patrol patterns if needed

1. Secure your home immediately with lock changes

1. Establish clear rule about visitors during addiction

1. Involve law enforcement if trespassing occurs

1. Document any incidents for potential legal action

1. Maintain firm boundaries regardless of protests

Expect immediate anger and accusations of not trusting them or being unreasonable. Your response: "I trust that addiction affects judgment about who is safe to bring home." They may escalate by threatening to leave or claiming you're pushing them toward more dangerous situations. Safety enforcement often motivates treatment consideration because it eliminates comfortable enabling environments and forces them to confront how addiction has affected their choices. Many parents find that once home security is established, their stress levels decrease significantly and they can think more clearly about other boundary decisions. Some dangerous associates may attempt to contact you directly—refer all communication to police if this occurs.

East Point Behavioral Health: (855) 887-6237 - Family safety planning and addiction intervention services

Emergency Services: 911 for immediate threats, trespassing incidents, or when dangerous individuals are on your property

Local Police Non-Emergency: For trespassing order information, incident reporting, and safety consultations

Home Security Companies: For security system installation and monitoring services

Legal Aid Services: For restraining orders and legal protection guidance

Locksmith Services: For emergency lock changes and security upgrades