HOUSTON – KPRC 2 recently reported on Blessed Hands Independent Homes, an unlicensed group home operating in southeast Harris County. Group homes: By the numbersKPRC 2 Investigates recently took a look at the number of unlicensed group homes operating in the city of Houston and Harris County. The medical systems which use unlicensed homes, rogue operators, landlords who lease homes to them, as well as HOAs which are not taking action against the facilities being run in their neighborhoods. Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said he is especially concerned about holding property owners who rent to these unlicensed group home operators accountable for their participation in these types of facilities. Robert Watson, an alleged victim discovered in the home Richardson operated, said he believes the accountability should not stop with the operator.

HOUSTON – How easy is it to set up an unlicensed group or boarding home in a residential neighborhood in Harris County? The concern for many is that these unlicensed homes serve some of society’s most vulnerable, including people suffering from illness and disability. Poverty also comes into play as many patients do not have the financial or family support to ensure proper care. Conservative estimates for the number of unlicensed homes in Harris County, according to elected officials, is anywhere between 120 to 150. And coming up on next Tuesday, Channel 2 Investigates will take a deeper investigation into local group homes.