Crossword Genius

Criminals used by shepherds? (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

crooks

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'criminals' is the definition.
(I know this)

I cannot understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for crooks that I've seen before include "at 16 down [MAN UNITED]" , "taken in hand by bishops" , "shepherds lay hold of" , "Bad guys" , "Cheats" .)

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