What is Child Criminal Exploitation?

Child Criminal Exploitation (CCE) is a type of child abuse where children are manipulated and coerced into committing crimes.

Criminal exploitation takes many forms, the most commonly known relating to the supply and movement of drugs, often referred to as County Lines. Offences include guns and other weapons, money laundering, violent offences and in some cases Cuckooing, where criminals forcibly take over control of a person’s home. Many organisations are working to disrupt the activity of criminal gangs and keep people safer. More information about child criminal exploitations can be found on the NSPCC website.

Organisations work with the Police to stop County Lines activity. They recognise the young people that have been exploited by criminal gangs as victims, not criminals. County Lines is a term used to describe the involvement of organised criminal networks and street gangs in moving illegal drugs from cities to other parts of the UK. In Norfolk, the originating city is usually London. Much of the activity and ‘business’ is conducted over a dedicated mobile phone line. Criminal networks involved in County Lines often exploit children and vulnerable adults to move and store drugs, money and weapons. This is frequently reinforced through coercion, intimidation and violence, including the use of sexual violence and weapons.

If you think a child is at risk of criminal or sexual exploitation in Norfolk: Call 0344 800 8020 and speak to someone at Norfolk Children's Advice and Duty Service (CADS) Ring 101 to speak to Norfolk Police.

In an emergency always dial 999.