The conversation addresses the dangers posed by “professional tenants” who prey upon rental housing providers. Although they can often afford to pay rent, these types of tenants refuse to do so deliberately, in order to live rent-free at the expense of the property owner. They are also skilled in prolonging an already long eviction process, as they plan for the next place to live and the next property owner to victimize.
Investigative reporter Ryan Kath and producer Shira Stoll of NBC 10 News Boston discuss their three-part news story about Linda and Russell Callahan, a pair of professional tenants who have cheated numerous property owners in Massachusetts and elsewhere for 20 years.
Attorney Jordana Greenman provides legal analysis, while describing the tactics used by professional tenants to commit fraud. She also discusses how the system in Massachusetts overlooks — and even encourages — this nefarious behavior. Can the system be reformed, so that property owners won’t have to suffer in the shadows any longer?
SPOA Vice President, Amir Shahsavari, moderates the discussion.