Understanding County Lines: Protecting Your Loved Ones

County Lines drug gangs exploit young and vulnerable people to move drugs across county borders.

This is child criminal exploitation (CCE), often run by violent organised crime groups (OCGs).

Signs that a young person may be involved are:

• Repeatedly missing from school/home, found in other areas

• Money, clothes, or tech with no clear explanation

• Lots of calls/texts, secretive about contacts

• Declining performance at school or work

• Sudden changes in mood or health

Cuckooing is when criminals take over someone’s home for drug dealing, signs include:

• Frequent visitors at odd hours

• Changes in daily routine

• Unusual smells

• Suspicious/unfamiliar vehicles

Superintendent Victoria Downing: “This has no place in our communities. Public information is key to stopping it.”

Reporting concerns: Call 101 (999 in an emergency) Live Chat: (Staffordshire Police website) Crimestoppers (anonymous): 0800 555 111

Finding Support: Catch22 helps young people at risk of CCE. Visit www.catch-22.org.uk or call 07834 341601.

Understanding County Lines: Protecting Your Loved Ones - created 12.8.25