|
||||
|
||||
|
|
||||
|
County Lines is a term used to describe gangs and organised criminal networks involved in dealing illegal drugs, using dedicated mobile phone lines or other form of ‘deal line.’ The gang activity is associated with drug dealing, vulnerable people, exploitation and violence.
County Lines has a devastating impact on young people, vulnerable adults and local communities. Gangs will use children and vulnerable people to move drugs and money, by criminally exploiting them. This is often through the promises of gifts, attention and a ‘better’ life, only to find themselves trapped in dangerous situations. People exploited in this way will quite often be exposed to physical, mental and sexual abuse, and in some instances will be trafficked to areas a long way from home as part of the network’s drug dealing business.
What are the signs?It’s essential to stay vigilant and recognise the signs of grooming and exploitation. Changes in behaviour or circumstances could include: Becoming more secretive Frequently going missing from school or home Being found out of the area or returning home late Truancy, exclusion or disengagement from school Changing friendship groups Mixing with older men or women Talking about people giving them free food, vapes, alcohol and cigarettes Having more than one mobile phone or many SIM cards Getting unexplained amounts of money, phones, clothing, jewellery or other items and gifts Receiving excessive calls or messages from unknown adults or friends Getting picked up or dropped off in cars by unknown people Unexplained injuries If you think there may be dealing or drugs activity happening at a property, it may be being cuckooed. They key things to look out for are: An increase in visitors and cars to a house or flat New faces appearing at the house or flat New and regularly changing residents (e.g different accents compared to local accent) Change in resident’s mood and/or demeanour (e.g. secretive/ withdrawn/ aggressive/ emotional) Substance misuse and/or drug paraphernalia Residents you know going missing, maybe for long periods of time Young people seen in different cars/taxis driven by unknown adults Young people seeming unfamiliar with your community or where they are Truancy, exclusion, disengagement from school An increase in anti-social behaviour in the community Unexplained injuries Is the person who lives at the address vulnerable? The signs of exploitation can be hard to read. Know what to look for. Know who to help.
For help, call anonymously For advice, call confidentially | ||||
Reply to this message | ||||
|
||||
|
|
|
|