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Have you heard of ‘cuckooing’? Well, much like a cuckoo bird which is known to take over the nests of other birds, cuckooing is where a drug dealer, or a person they might know, exploits a person with vulnerabilities– taking over and using their home to store, sell or use drugs. Dealers often approach a vulnerable person offering them free drugs to use their home for dealing. In some cases, after providing ‘free’ drugs, they will then force the person to deal for them in order to ‘repay’ their debts. Criminal gangs are selective about who they target – a lot of victims are lonely, isolated and feel trapped. They are too scared to speak out and get the help they need. Cuckooing impacts entire communities with knock-on effects of anti-social behaviour, violence and an increase in thefts and burglaries. Sometimes cuckooing goes on for just a few days before the dealers move on, so if you suspect it, report it immediately so we can take action. You can call us, or if you prefer, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 and report 100% anonymously. | 
