Cuckooing victim helped by Council

Ashfield District Council Community Safety Team helped to end a cuckoo’s reign of terror in Stanton Hill.

The cuckoo – a person involved in criminal activities who uses deception, threats or force to live, or use a vulnerable person’s home as a base for illegal activities - was discovered by Community Protection Officer’s (CPOs) as part of their regular patrol of Stanton Hill. A resident advised them that they believed the person who had previously cuckooed him, was now cuckooing a resident in another flat. 

CPOs were invited into the distressed resident’s flat where she disclosed that a male was currently living in her son’s bedroom and dealing drugs from her home. She told the officers that she no longer wanted him there and she had not reported him as she feared for her safety. 

The CPOs found the male and kept him talking in the bedroom until the police arrived, who questioned and then arrested him. After this intervention, the CPOs ensured the victim’s flat was secure. Since the arrest, they have visited Stanton Hill to conduct regular welfare checks and to reassure other residents. 

Cllr Paul Grafton, Executive Lead Member for Community Safety and Crime Reduction said:

“This is a fantastic result for our Community Safety Team and the residents of Stanton Court. Cuckooing is a big issue in Ashfield and we are committed to supporting the victims and taking enforcement action against the people and gangs who are responsible.” 

Ashfield District Council tenants are urged to get in contact with their Housing Officer if they believe they are a victim of a cuckoo. 

Anyone who suspects that someone they know or a neighbour, is a victim, can contact the police or Ashfield District Council’s Community Safety Team for support and advice.

Posted on 03 July 2026