Definition Of Cuckooing
Cuckooing is a criminal tactic where offenders take over the home of a vulnerable person to use it for illegal activities, such as drug dealing and storage, human trafficking or forced Labour, storing stolen goods or weapons, and financial fraud or identity theft.
The term cuckooing originates from the behavior of the cuckoo bird, which lays its eggs in other birds’ nests, tricking them into raising the cuckoo’s offspring. Similarly, perpetrators invade victims’ homes and exploit them for criminal purposes.
Who Is Affected By Cuckooing?
Cuckooing primarily targets vulnerable individuals, including:
- Elderly individuals
- People with mental health conditions
- Individuals with substance abuse issues
- People with disabilities
- Socially isolated individuals
- Residents of social or supported housing
Community Impact
Cuckooing does not only affect the individual victim. It creates a wider community risk, as these homes often become hotspots for criminal activity, violence, and anti-social behavior, leading to neighborhood deterioration and fear among residents.