Five Arrested in Cuckooing Cases, Victims Safeguarded

Five suspects have been arrested and two vulnerable victims have been safeguarded after neighbourhood officers responded to separate reported cases of cuckooing – one of the most serious forms of antisocial behaviour (ASB).

Understanding Cuckooing

Cuckooing, named after cuckoos which invade the nests of other birds, is commonly used by criminals to take over a person’s home to store, supply, and produce drugs, or facilitate other criminality.

Cuckooing can happen to anyone; however, criminals often target the most vulnerable, including those who experience substance misuse, have a physical or learning disability, have a mental health condition, are elderly, or are struggling financially.

Victim Exploitation and Manipulation

Offenders use deceit, force, or coercive tactics to manipulate victims and establish a position of trust. They may offer money, friendship, drugs, alcohol, clothing, a relationship, or pay for food and utilities to quickly build a rapport.

In exchange, they may ask to ‘borrow’ a room to store something or meet ‘friends’ at the property. Gradually, any perceived ‘benefits’ will reduce and the offender may threaten the victim with violence if they try to end their criminal behaviour.

Investigations and Arrests in Sutton-in-Ashfield

Investigations are ongoing into two separate reports of cuckooing in Sutton-in-Ashfield. One of the highly-vulnerable victims told officers that he had been befriended by some homeless people who he had initially given small amounts of money to but who then persuaded him to give them more cash.

From there he was exploited further. This included being persuaded into handing over his bank card, with money being taken out of his account. Matters then progressed, with the suspects moving into his home.

Victim's Experience and Safeguarding Measures

The victim was reportedly forced to take drugs and sleep on the floor, attempts were made to get him to be a 'drug runner' and he was also exposed to violent incidents. His television and mobile phone were stolen after he had been coerced into moving into another property.

The victim told police he felt he had no freedom to do his own things, felt like he was being kept away from people and wasn’t allowed to talk to anyone unless the suspects gave him permission. Detailed inquiries have since been carried out which has led to two suspects - a 36-year-old man and a 38-year-old woman - being arrested in connection with the investigation.

Additional Cuckooing Case and Ongoing Investigations

The 36-year-old man was located and detained in Sutton town centre on Wednesday 30 June. He was arrested on suspicion of holding a person in slavery or servitude and fraud by false representation. He has since been released on conditional bail.

The 38-year-old woman is also currently on conditional bail following her arrest in April on suspicion of burglary, human trafficking, fraud by false representation and theft. Officers have made a number of referrals to safeguard the victim who has said he is now much happier after moving into new accommodation.

Public Awareness and Support for Victims

Our officers have kept in close contact with him throughout their investigation. A separate cuckooing investigation was launched after officers attended a flat in Sutton-in-Ashfield on 19 May after concerns were raised that a group of men had 'taken over' the property from the person living there.

Three men, aged 32, 26, and 23, were arrested and interviewed on suspicion of drug and modern slavery offences. They were subsequently released on conditional bail. A quantity of cannabis was also seized at the address. The police investigation remains ongoing.