New legislation aimed at combatting child criminal exploitation will be proposed next week, empowering law enforcement to impose up to 10 years in prison for those grooming children into drug trafficking. Additionally, the practice of 'cuckooing', wherein criminals exploit vulnerable individuals by taking over their homes for drug dealing, will also face strict penalties. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper condemned the exploitation of young people, highlighting the urgency of protecting them from gangs. Reports suggest that around 14,500 children are at risk, although this number may be understated, prompting urgent legislative action.
Criminals who groom children into county lines drug dealing could be jailed for up to 10 years in new legislation set to be introduced next week.
Yvette Cooper stated, 'The exploitation of children and vulnerable people for criminal gain is sickening and it is vital we do everything in our power to eradicate it from our streets.'
The legislation aims to protect young victims and impose harsher penalties, including outlawing 'cuckooing' and introducing Child Criminal Exploitation prevention orders.
Around 14,500 children were identified as being at risk of child criminal exploitation in 2023-24, but many cases likely go unreported.
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