Criminal Policies
One Strike Policy
The goal of the One Strike and You're Out Policy is to ensure the safety and wel being of families who live in public housing. The "one strike" policy applies to Tenants of the VIHA. Individuals who engage in illegal drug use and/or other criminal activity shall be evicted from their dwelling unit after one (1) such offense. The VIHA is committed to the provisions of this policy and it shall be strictly enforced. By agressively removing criminals from the Authority's public housing developments, the One Strike policy:
(a) free public housing Tenants from daily threats to their personal and family safety;
(b) build public housing communities that are safer and drug-free;
(c) create a positive environment for Tenants of all ages, where people can live, learn, and grow to be productive and responsible citizens;
(e) set an example for greater community.
Guiding Principles of the One Strike Policy
The VIHA Strike policy was dveloped based on the followiing principles:
(a) All individuals have the right to live in peace and be free from fear, intimidation, and abuse. The VIHA is committed to providing safe housing for all Tenants of Authority.
(b) Public and assisted housing should be awarded to responsible individuals. The VIHA shall give no preference to applicant families with a history of drug-related behavior and/or criminal activity.
(c) Applicants and current Tenants of public housing must be protected from discrimination and violation of their right to privacy. The VIHA shall comply with all civil rights, fair housing, and privacy laws, at oth the screening and eviction stages. The VIHA shall not discriminate against any application or Tenant based on race, color, nationality, religion, sex, familial status, disability, or membership in other groups or categories protected under such laws.
(d) Active community and governmental involvement iin designing and implementing a One Strike policy is fundamental to its success. The VIHA shall works cooperatively with local government, law enforcement, Tenants, and the courts in enforcing the One Strike policy.