How you can spot county lines drug dealing in your area

By The Newsroom
Published 25th Jul 2018, 13:38 BST
Updated 25th Jul 2018, 14:59 BST
Glenis Balchin from Crimestoppers with PCSOs Silviu Ilie and Rock Schofield. Picture: Derek MartinGlenis Balchin from Crimestoppers with PCSOs Silviu Ilie and Rock Schofield. Picture: Derek Martin
Glenis Balchin from Crimestoppers with PCSOs Silviu Ilie and Rock Schofield. Picture: Derek Martin
The growing threat to our communities of '˜county lines' drug dealing and the exploitation associated with it is being highlighted by a new campaign.

The charity Crimestoppers launched a national campaign this week to highlight county lines and encourage the public to report their concerns.

Glenys Balchin, regional manager for Crimestoppers, said: “We know that the term ‘county lines’ might not be widely recognised, which is why we are launching this campaign and asking for your help to support us in tackling this issue.

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“We need help to put a stop to this exploitation and the damage that these criminals are inflicting on our communities and those being taken advantage of.

Can you help by providing information? Picture: Derek MartinCan you help by providing information? Picture: Derek Martin
Can you help by providing information? Picture: Derek Martin

“We are asking you to contact us anonymously and safely through our 0800 555 111 number, or via our secure online form at Crimestoppers-uk.org - both methods are 100 per cent anonymous. Always.

“Together we can put a stop to this.”

An advan is touring the two counties today and tomorrow, giving people more information on how they can play their part in helping to tackle this issue.

In addition, a social media campaign has also been launched by the charity to raise awareness of the crime.

Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne with PCSOs Ellen and Darren and Crimestoppers Kieran Haran. Picture: CrimestoppersSussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne with PCSOs Ellen and Darren and Crimestoppers Kieran Haran. Picture: Crimestoppers
Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne with PCSOs Ellen and Darren and Crimestoppers Kieran Haran. Picture: Crimestoppers

What is County Lines?

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The charity said county lines refers to gangs and organised criminal networks which export illegal drugs into suburban, rural and coastal areas, using dedicated mobile phone lines or “deal line.”

The crime sees county lines gangs exploit children and vulnerable adults to move drugs and money.

The gangs move into a rural or suburban area for a short time, taking over the home of a vulnerable person where they set up a base.

Many of those taken advantage of by these gangs have been forced to carry out criminal activity by threats, grooming and extortion and can be described as modern day slaves, the charity said.

Spot the signs and report concerns

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