County lines is the term used to describe organised criminal exploitation, normally of children and young people, to store and sell drugs. This is for the materialistic gains of criminals who used vulnerable people to distance themselves from the criminal justice system. Often the gangs persuade children by giving them gifts such as shoes, cash or drugs. When a child decides that they don’t wish to participate, the gangs then coerce them through fear or actual violence. Those who become part of a county line not only risk their futures when getting caught by law enforcement, but also by rival gangs who make seek to harm them if they are seen to be in competition. 

Make no mistake. County lines operate throughout Warwickshire.

It is currently county lines week, but our efforts to combat county lines never stop. This week the Safer Neighbourhood Team have been in school using virtual reality headsets to simulate the risks of carry a knife to try and raise their awareness to the dangerous they may face. We have also been conducting home visits on children identified by local schools as being at risk. We have a close working bind with the pastoral teams and will continue to work together. 

Every resident can do their part by contacting us with any information they have about possible dealing in their area to help us deter unwanted activity in our neighbourhoods. You can also contact us if you are concerned about a young person you know. You can report via 101, online via the Warwickshire website, through Warwickshire Connected or directly via our email (for non-emergencies only). 

There are also other sources of support for young persons.

Catch 22 and Safecall are available for anyone who wants to ask for help, without calling the police.