A Swindon drug dealer who took advantage of a vulnerable resident in a case of so-called ‘cuckooing’ has been sentenced to four years in prison.
Simon Huckvale, aged 36, of White Castle, Toothill, appeared before Swindon Crown Court on 9th June where he admitted multiple serious offences. These included possession with intent to supply crack cocaine, cocaine, cannabis, being concerned in the supply of heroin, and possession of criminal property.
The charges followed a police raid on 29th December last year. Officers from Swindon’s Local Policing Tasking Team (LPTT) attended an address in Toothill amid concerns that the occupant had fallen victim to cuckooing – a practice where criminals seize control of the home of a vulnerable individual to facilitate illegal activity.
Upon arrival, Huckvale attempted to run at officers before trying to escape, but was swiftly detained. A thorough search of the property uncovered a substantial haul of illegal substances. Officers recovered over 230 grams of cocaine, 529 grams of crack cocaine, 397 grams of heroin, and more than a kilogram of cannabis. The drugs seized were estimated to have a potential street value exceeding £120,000.
Following his arrest, Huckvale was charged and remanded into custody.
PC Thomas of the LPTT said: “This incident involved the exploitation of a vulnerable person through cuckooing, allowing serious drug supply operations to take place within Swindon. These criminals often prey on some of the most fragile members of our society, using intimidation and threats to trap them within their own homes.
“Huckvale’s arrest has already had a significant impact on the availability of drugs in the local area. We remain committed to identifying and targeting individuals who use such despicable tactics to profit from the misery of others.”
The Wyvern community has long raised concerns about the ongoing problem of cuckooing and county lines activity in Swindon. This case serves as a reminder of the continued efforts by Wiltshire Police to disrupt organised crime and protect vulnerable residents.
Anyone who suspects cuckooing in their neighbourhood is encouraged to contact police or Crimestoppers anonymously.
