'Cuckooing' Drug Dealer Took Control Of Vulnerable Victim's Home

A drug dealer, who intimidated a vulnerable resident and took over their home to sell heroin and cocaine during an 'cuckooing' enterprise, has been caged.

Akram Ali, 20, of Mill Lane, West Hampstead, threatened the victim with violence and assaulted him as he took to complete control of the address.

At Wood Green Crown Court he received three years custody for assault and possession of the drugs, with intent to supply.

The court heard how in January, the victim reported to police that his address had been taken over.

It was being exploited for drugs supply and trafficking - also known as ‘cuckooing’. 

The victim had been threatened and assaulted before he eventually managed to escape and report his ordeal police.

Officers from the Central North Gangs Unit launched an immediate investigation, and executed an arrest warrant at the address.

They discovered Ali as well as a quantity of Class A drugs – namely 217 wraps of crack cocaine and 110 wraps of heroin.

PC Josh Pryce, of the Central North Gangs Unit, said: “Ali specifically targeted the victim and preyed on his vulnerabilities and used his home as a base to commit crime.

“Drug dealing causes violence and misery across our communities and vulnerable people can often be exploited and intimidated.

“I hope Ali’s conviction brings some feeling of justice to the victim who can now start to rebuild his life. 

“If anyone believes they themselves are a victim of cuckooing, or suspects that someone they know may be a victim, please contact police so we can take action and support you.”