Fears children in rural places like Lincolnshire more at risk of falling into county lines than anywhere else
Figures we've seen suggest it's on the rise here
We're being told children in rural places like Lincolnshire are more at risk of falling into the hands of drug gangs than anywhere else in the country.
We've been lifting the lid on the impact of county lines.
It see's young and vulnerable people being used to move drugs from one area to another.
Figures we've seen suggest it's on the rise here.
Lydia Patsalides from our local Crime Stoppers team said county lines can happen anywhere.
"What we are finding is that bigger city organised crime groups are sending out runners to come to much smaller places where they can infiltrate and perhaps take over some drug dealing patches.
"They like to use the fact that police resources are stretched and that the travel across the city is not necessarily as easy, so once you get to a place and you can set up, you’re accessible for others.
"They like to focus on also the change of seasons, so tourism as well.
"So, for Lincolnshire, as an example, with having the coast we get very busy during the summer months, that’s also a great time for people to come across and try to start dealing drugs and taking over some of the drug dealing areas."
What if I'm worried about a young person?
- People should report any concerns to the police on 101.
- If on a train text British Transport Police on 61016.
- Dial 999 if there is an immediate risk to a child.
- Alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously online or call their helpline on 0800 555111.