Police Shut Down Access to Homes in Bodmin After Exploitation Fears

Police have issued partial closure orders at two properties in Bodmin after taking action to protect vulnerable tenants from cuckooing.

The orders make it illegal for visitors to enter the properties and are designed to safeguard the people living there from suspected exploitation inside their own homes.

What the closure orders mean

The partial closure orders were served on Tuesday 13 January and will remain in place for three months.

During that time, only the named tenant, police officers, social workers and health professionals are allowed to enter or remain at the addresses.

Anyone found breaching the orders could face a fine, imprisonment, or both.

The action forms part of the wider approach by Devon and Cornwall Police to protect vulnerable individuals from being exploited in their own homes.

Police response in Bodmin

The local neighbourhood team in Bodmin is continuing to work closely with partner organisations to ensure the affected tenants receive appropriate support and further protection from harm.

Inspector Adam Stonehill, who leads the local neighbourhood team, said the orders were a necessary step to tackle those who exploit others.

“These orders are an important step for us to take action against those who choose to take advantage of others in our community,” Adam said.

“In both of these cases, the tenants were victims of cuckooing which is a practice where criminals take over a person’s home and use the property for exploitation purposes and personal gain.

“Our officers will be enforcing these orders, imposing relevant consequences to any individuals who shouldn’t be there.”

Adam added: “We take these offences very seriously.

“Keeping people safe from harm remains at the core of what we do, and our team will continue to do all they can to protect vulnerable people from being a victim of crime.”

Signs to look out for

Police are urging the public to report concerns and say information from the community is vital in keeping people safe.

“If something doesn’t look quite right – please report it to us,” Adam said.

Possible signs of exploitation include:

• An increase in the number of people entering a nearby property, especially at unusual times

• An increase in unfamiliar vehicles outside an address

• The occupant appearing anxious, withdrawn or afraid

• A property becoming unkept, damaged or neglected

“Your reports are key in us taking steps to keep people safe,” Adam added.

How to report concerns or get support

More information about cuckooing and exploitation is available on the Devon and Cornwall Police website: Learn more about cuckooing and exploitation

Concerns can be reported online or by calling 101. If a crime is taking place, call 999.

Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555111 or via their website.

Anyone affected by crime can access support through Victim Care at victimcare-dc.org, call Victim Support on 08 08 16 89 111, or contact Devon and Cornwall Police’s Victim Care Unit on 01392 475900.