1. Modern Slavery Exploitation County Lines
Detective Chief Inspector Christina Berenger
Protecting Vulnerable People (PVP)

2. Our eyes were opened in 2014
Throughout Numerous Drugs Intelligence reports
9th November call
Engaged with police - Disclosed threats by London dealers
10th November - Teenage son made disclosures at school
Intelligence from neighbours
3rd December - Section 23 Drugs warrant executed
4th December - Disclosed to social worker felt suicidal
9th December - Partial closure order
10th & 11th December - welfare checks
12th December – Gary found deceased at home
He had taken his own life
A condolence card left at his door read: “Gary RIP mate. You’re safe up there now they can’t touch you. Miss u.”
We learned many lessons from this tragic loss of life……………….

3. What is a County Line
MONEY

4. Vulnerable and exploited Tortured for losing drugs

5. Do you know this child??? Criminals or Victims?
Vulnerable-
No trust in authorities
Repeat Missing
In debt
Anti-social behaviour
Recruited into new circle
New clothes / phone money ??
No disclosures
Cannabis use
Injuries
Threatened
Out of area LAC
Excluded from school
Sexually active
Drug Dealing
Member of gang
Carry knives
Siblings / parents in CJ system
Poor / absent parenting
Increased power / confidence
Criminals or Victims?

6. Health Police Charities Community Safety Partnership Schools Wardens
ChildrensSocial Care
Joint Objectives – to PROTECT
Disruption
Information Sharing
Build intelligence picture
Safeguarding
Build a Community Resilience

7. Listen. See. Tell. Protect
Change the mindset – victims not criminals
Lift the stone – Professional Curiosity
Don’t give up on them- persist and they may disclose……….
Listen. See. Tell. Protect