Partial Closure Order for ‘Cuckood’ Drug-Dealing Property in Ash

Published on: 26 Mar, 2019
Updated on: 27 Mar, 2019

A property in Ash thought to be affected by county lines drug-dealing was granted a partial closure order by Guildford magistrate’s court on Thursday, March 21.

Borough police commander Andy Hill said: “This address is thought to have been ‘cuckooed’ (where drug dealers take over an address, often that of a vulnerable person, to use it as a base for dealing).

We hope this partial closure will have a significant impact on drug supply here and surrounding areas. This is a really positive result and a testament to the hard work of all those involved in this case.

“We also hope the partial closure brings some relief to the local residents, whose lives will have been significantly impacted by the drug supply and associated anti-social behaviour in the neighbourhood.”

The partial closure order lasts three months and expires at midnight on June 20. If any other person other than those named on the court order attempts to enter, or is caught inside during that period, they will be arrested and face court. Surrey Police will work with partner agencies to help support those affected.

Possible signs a property has been “cuckooed”

A notable increase in people entering and leaving the property;
An increase in cars or bikes parked outside;
A possible increase in anti-social behaviour;
Increasing litter left outside the property; and
Signs of drugs use.

“County lines” is a national issue involving the use of mobile phone lines by groups to extend their drug-dealing activity into new locations other than their own area. It nearly always involves the exploitation of children and vulnerable adults.

Anyone experiencing anti-social behaviour in their neighbourhood can find information and advice on anti-social behaviour at www.surreycommunitysafety.org.uk.

And anyone with information about suspected drug-dealing or crime should call 101 or contact http://surrey.police.uk/TellUsMore

Information can be given, 100% anonymously, to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111; or through https://crimestoppers-uk.org/.