Stop using your keys to snort cocaine or this will happen: locksmith

New York Post - Mar 29th, 2025
Open on New York Post

Craig Andres, a master locksmith associated with Perspicacity Life, is warning the public about the unexpected security risks posed by using house keys for drug use. With a rise in service calls for locks damaged by cocaine residue, Andres highlights how keys, frequently used to scoop drugs, are not designed for such purposes. Over time, this misuse can weaken the key's structure, causing damage to locks and potentially locking homeowners out. Additionally, drug residue can accumulate within the lock cylinder, resulting in blockages, stiffness, and jamming.

The implications of this story are significant as it highlights a lesser-known consequence of recreational drug use that could affect home security. Not only does this practice pose health risks, but it also compromises the integrity of home locking mechanisms. This revelation serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining keys properly by cleaning them regularly and avoiding using them for unintended purposes. The story underscores the need for awareness about the broader impacts of drug use beyond personal health, extending into aspects of everyday security and maintenance.

Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

5.4
Moderately Fair
Read with skepticism

The article provides an intriguing perspective on the unconventional risks of using keys for drug consumption, specifically cocaine. It highlights potential damage to keys and locks, which could affect home security. However, the article is primarily based on the viewpoint of a single locksmith, without corroborating evidence or input from other experts. This reliance on a single source limits the article's credibility and balance. While the topic is timely and of public interest, the lack of transparency and diverse perspectives reduces its potential impact and engagement. Overall, the article is clear and readable but would benefit from additional evidence and context to enhance its reliability and depth.

RATING DETAILS

6
Accuracy

The article makes several claims regarding the damage caused by using keys to snort cocaine, such as the weakening of keys and the buildup of cocaine residue affecting locks. While these claims are plausible, the article lacks concrete evidence or data to support them. For example, the story mentions a 'recent surge in service calls' for such issues, but it does not provide specific data or sources to substantiate this claim. Additionally, the mechanical impact of cocaine residue on locks is not explained with technical details or expert testimony beyond the locksmith's assertions. These gaps suggest that while the claims could be accurate, they are not thoroughly verified within the article.

5
Balance

The article predominantly presents the viewpoint of Craig Andres, a master locksmith, without offering alternative perspectives or expert opinions from other fields, such as drug use experts or engineers. This singular focus may lead to an imbalanced presentation, as it lacks input from other stakeholders who might provide different insights into the issue. The absence of a broader range of viewpoints, such as those from law enforcement or health professionals, limits the article's balance and depth.

7
Clarity

The article is generally clear in its language and structure, with a straightforward presentation of the locksmith's warnings and advice. The tone is informative, and the use of direct quotes from Craig Andres helps to convey the key points effectively. However, the article could benefit from a more organized layout that separates different aspects of the issue, such as the physical impact on keys and locks and the broader implications for home security. Overall, the article is comprehensible, but its clarity could be enhanced with more detailed explanations.

4
Source quality

The primary source in the article is Craig Andres, associated with Perspicacity Life, a marketing brand connecting customers with locksmiths. While Andres may have expertise in locksmithing, his commercial connection could introduce a conflict of interest, as his statements might indirectly promote his services. The article does not include other authoritative sources, such as independent locksmith associations or technical experts, to corroborate the claims made. This reliance on a single source with potential bias affects the overall reliability and credibility of the information presented.

5
Transparency

The article provides limited transparency regarding the basis of its claims. It does not disclose the methodology for determining the 'surge in service calls' or the specific evidence supporting the assertions about cocaine residue's impact on locks. Additionally, there is no mention of potential conflicts of interest or the context in which the locksmith's statements were made. This lack of transparency makes it difficult for readers to fully understand the article's foundation and assess its impartiality.

Sources

  1. https://www.esd.whs.mil/Portals/54/Documents/FOID/Reading%20Room/FOIA_Log/FOIA%20Log-FY09.xls?ver=2019-04-03-130436-180
  2. https://sentencingcases.com/400-adjustments-generally-chapter-3/431-cases-finding-aggravating-role-2
  3. https://ground.news/article/sniffing-cocaine-from-house-keys-wrecks-locks-and-costs-users-thousands
  4. https://cases.stretto.com/public/x365/13094/PLEADINGS/1309410182480000000126.pdf