In recent years, the criminal justice system has seen a significant shift in how drug offences – particularly those involving young or vulnerable individuals – are investigated and prosecuted. Central to this shift is the growing recognition of county lines, modern slavery and child trafficking as part of the wider drug supply chain.
These cases are complex, high-stakes and emotionally charged. At Sahota & Sahota Solicitors, we have deep experience defending individuals caught in the crosshairs of these investigations – particularly those who may be victims rather than criminals.
What Is County Lines?
County lines refers to a form of criminal exploitation where urban drug gangs expand their operations into smaller towns and rural areas, often using a single phone line (the ‘line’) to sell drugs. Vulnerable people – especially children – are frequently used to move, store or sell drugs under duress, coercion or threats.
Many of those arrested in county lines operations are young, with no previous convictions and are acting under pressure, duress or fear. Police investigations into these networks are increasingly aggressive, often involving surveillance, phone data, ANPR evidence and joint enterprise charges.
When Drug Cases Involve Modern Slavery or Trafficking
Modern slavery and trafficking defences are increasingly being raised in criminal proceedings, particularly when:
- A child or vulnerable person is found in possession of large quantities of drugs or cash
- There is evidence of coercion, grooming or violence
- The individual has been moved across regions, housed in ‘trap houses’ or forced to work in dangerous conditions
- The person was under 18 at the time of arrest and may have been groomed online or offline.
In these situations, the Modern Slavery Act 2015 comes into play. A person may be deemed a victim of trafficking or slavery and that status could form a statutory defence to charges of drug supply or possession with intent.
Where a National Referral Mechanism (NRM) decision supports the individual’s claim, the defence under section 45 of the Act can be powerful – potentially leading to dismissal of charges or acquittal.
How We Defend County Lines and Modern Slavery Drug Cases
Our approach is detailed and strategic. We:
- Work closely with family members to understand background and vulnerabilities
- Examine digital evidence – texts, call logs, cell site data – for signs of grooming or control
- Request safeguarding records and involve youth or trafficking experts
- Pursue NRM referrals where appropriate and challenge CPS decisions that ignore them
- Prepare strong legal arguments under the Modern Slavery Act and abuse of process where necessary
In many cases, what looks like a drug dealer is actually a young person under extreme pressure or fear. Our job is to make sure the court sees the whole picture.
Why Choose Sahota & Sahota?
We have specialist experience in county lines, youth defence and modern slavery cases. Our legal team is proactive, discreet and fiercely committed to justice.
Whether you’re a parent whose child has been arrested, a vulnerable adult facing serious charges, or someone already under investigation, we bring:
- Expertise in defending complex multi-handed drug conspiracies
- Strong relationships with barristers, youth advocates and trafficking specialists
- A client-centred approach that puts your voice and your story first
“Too often, vulnerable people are criminalised before they are protected. At Sahota & Sahota, we work to make sure our clients are seen as human beings first, not just case numbers. We fight for the bigger picture and for justice.”
— Kally Sahota, Director
Contact Us Now
If you or someone you care about is facing serious drug charges linked to county lines or modern slavery, don’t delay.
- You can call/WhatsApp us on 01162555155
You can visit us at: Sahota & Sahota Solicitors, 25 New Walk, Leicester, LE1 6TE
We are available 24/7 for urgent cases and police station representation.
