They've stolen money or sold our belongings

Situation Recognition

Financial theft from family members is common in addiction - stealing cash, selling belongings, using credit cards, forging checks, or accessing accounts without permission. This creates both financial crisis and deep emotional betrayal.

Michael Wilson's Insight

"When addiction drives someone to steal from family, they've crossed a line that requires immediate consequences. Protect your finances first, process the emotional betrayal second. Financial access during active addiction often funds continued use."

Comprehensive Guidance

Why addiction leads to financial theft:

• Substance access becomes more important than family trust
• Desperation makes previously unthinkable actions feel necessary
• Addiction convinces them they'll replace what they take "when things get better"
• Shame prevents asking for money directly, making theft feel like the only option
• Family members often have easiest access to money and valuables

Immediate financial protection steps:

• Change all account passwords and remove their access immediately
• Contact banks to report unauthorized transactions and freeze accounts
• Remove them from credit cards and joint accounts
• Secure or remove valuable items from the home
• Document all theft for potential legal action
• Consider filing police reports for significant theft amounts

Implementation Steps

1. Secure all financial accounts immediately - passwords, access, debit cards

1. Document everything that was stolen with dates, amounts, and evidence

1. Contact banks and credit card companies to report unauthorized use

1. Remove access to joint accounts and consider separate banking

1. File police reports if theft amounts are significant or ongoing

What to Expect

Denial about taking money or items despite clear evidence. Promises to pay everything back when they get better. Anger that you're "treating them like a criminal." Potential escalation if financial access is completely removed. Legal consequences may be necessary for significant theft.

Professional Resources

East Point Behavioral Health: (855) 887-6237 - Crisis intervention when addiction leads to financial crimes

Legal Counsel: For advice on pressing charges or financial protection orders

Financial Advisors: For rebuilding financial security after theft losses