Cuckooing is a criminal practice where offenders take over a vulnerable person's home to use it for illegal activities like drug dealing, storing weapons.

The name comes from the cuckoo bird, which takes over other birds' nests. 

How It Works

• Targeting: Criminals (often gang members or drug dealers tied to County Lines networks) befriend or coerce vulnerable individuals.

• Vulnerability: Victims often have mental health issues, learning difficulties, physical disabilities, or drug and alcohol dependencies.

• Exploitation: Once inside, perpetrators take control of the property, sometimes forcing the resident out of rooms, stealing their money, or trapping them in their own home. 

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