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Cannabis Campaigners' Guide News Database result:
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UK: UKP9,000 amateur cannabis farm in terraced house
Burnley Espress
Friday 05 Oct 2007 AN addict behind a £9,000 cannabis farm in a rented terrace house in Brierfield has walked free from court. Burnley Crown Court heard that Steven Aspinall's efforts to provide ventilation for the hydroponic system were so inept neighbours in Belgrave Street called in police after smelling the drug. Officers found 600 plants but the defendant claimed they were all for his own use, to feed his 60 joint, £120-a-day habit. The court was told one defence expert witness had reported he had never before come across a cannabis user with such a heavy addiction. The drugs could have been worth up to £9,000 on the streets and Aspinall later admitted he supplied family and friends. Aspinall, who had had to abandon training to be a plumber because of his habit, had a young daughter and would clear the house of plants if she visited, the judge heard. The defendant, said to suffer anxiety, depression and be in a "fragile" state of health, admitted producing cannabis. He was given a 12-month jail term, suspended for two years with 18 months supervision. Sentencing, Recorder Philip Butler told Aspinall he would be able to take steps to kick his habit while at liberty but warned that jail awaited if he flouted the court order. Mr Jeremy Grout-Smith (prosecuting) said last November, a police officer called at 1-30 p.m. and Aspinall was caught running from the back door. Cannabis plants in various states of growth were found in the kitchen, two bedrooms and loft and the bathroom was also being used for production. Digital scales and a grinder were also discovered. He had a previous conviction for importing cannabis. Mr Philip Holden (defending) said the attempt at cannabis growing was amateurish. The hyrdroponic system was poor, some of the plants were diseased and it was a crude system set up by Aspinall to feed his own, expensive habit. The defendant had been receiving medication for anxiety and depression and it was desperation that led him to set up the cannabis farm. He had not been living a lavish lifestyle. The barrister added: "He wants to try to rid himself off his addiction and get himself a job." http://www.burnleyexpress.net/burnley-news/9000-amateur-cannabis-farm-in.3268770.jp
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