The variable and evolving nature of ‘cuckooing’ as a form of criminal exploitation in street level drug markets

Jack Spicer, Leah Moyle, Ross Coomber

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Abstract

A form of criminal exploitation rarely mentioned in the academic literature has
recently emerged, evolved and taken meaningful hold in the UK. Hundreds of
cases of ‘cuckooing’ have been reported, where heroin and crack cocaine dealers
associated with the so-called ‘County Lines’ supply methodology have taken over the homes of local residents and created outposts to facilitate their supply operations in satellite locations. Dominant narratives surrounding this practice have stressed its exploitative nature and the vulnerabilities of those involved. Combining qualitative data from two studies, this paper critically analyses the model of cuckooing and the experiences of those affected. In turn it explores the impact of County Lines on affected areas and local populations, a topic that has received little academic scrutiny. Four typologies of cuckooing are constructed, highlighting its variance and complexity. Findings also suggest it to be a growing method of criminal exploitation beyond drug supply with a possible burgeoning presence being realised internationally.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)301–323
Number of pages23
JournalTrends in Organized Crime
Volume23
Issue number4
Early online date21 Jun 2019
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Dec 2020

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