THE dangers of county lines drugs gangs are being exposed in a new film, which was shot in Dorset and is based on a true story.

The film, In Too Deep, follows a young man named ‘Sam’ and his own involvement with county lines drugs gangs.

The High Sheriff of Dorset, George Streatfeild, had the film produced as a way of bringing home the scale of the problem in Dorset and hopes it will educate and improve awareness of the issue across the community.

County lines is the term used to describe urban gangs supplying drugs to other parts of the UK using dedicated mobile phone lines. The gangs are likely to exploit children and vulnerable adults in order to move and store drugs and money.

In the film, 'Sam' - after being bullied and expelled from school - becomes more and more vulnerable and becomes involved with a gang who take advantage of him and use him to transport drugs around the country.

George Streatfeild also hopes the film will encourage young people to think about the society in which they are growing up in and to stimulate discussion and awareness of bullying, grooming, sexual exploitation, exclusion from school and real friendships.

Mr Streatfeild said: “Yes, this really is a Dorset story, and I would like to make everyone aware that this menace is right on our doorstep."

The film was produced by Key Light Films and supported by Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner Martyn Underhill, Future Roots and Bournemouth University.

Martyn Underhill, Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner, said: “This short film explains the reasons why some young people are lured into working for county lines gangs, the way these gangs exploit vulnerable people and the tragic consequences this can have.

“But it also shows that none of this is inevitable. There is a choice to be made and with the right support, young people can avoid these terrible situations. I’m proud to have supported this film and I hope as many people as possible watch it and learn how to spot the signs of gang exploitation.”

Early identification is said to be key to safeguarding young and vulnerable people and in identifying and tackling gang exploitation.

If you would like more information or help on this topic, please contact: enquiries@escapeline.org.uk or 07707897008.