Street
cuckooing
What does cuckooing mean?
Cuckooing is when drug dealers seize control of a vulnerable person's home, through coercion or manipulation, to use as a base for dealing.
"Neighbours grew suspicious when strangers began coming and going, a sign of cuckooing."
Origin
UK term; from the cuckoo bird taking over other birds' nests.
Frequently asked questions
What is 'cuckooing'?
It's when drug dealers take over a vulnerable person's home, through coercion or manipulation, and use it as a base for dealing.
Why is it called 'cuckooing'?
It's named after the cuckoo bird, which takes over other birds' nests rather than building its own.
Where is 'cuckooing' used?
It's a UK term closely tied to county lines drug operations and the exploitation of vulnerable people.
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