Source: West Sussex County Times
Date: 21 February 2003
Subj: Police Drugs Raid
POLICE DRUGS RAID
POLICE raided a house in Storrington on Wednesday as part of their n-going campaign against drugs in the county.
Fifteen police officers, some in riot gear, plus scenes of crime officers, dog handlers and a scientist took part in the morning raid.
Officers, acting on 'information received', carried out a thorough search of the Storrington house and garden.
Sergeant Stuart Hale commented: "We found what we believe to be cannabis. A number of plants were found growing in an outbuilding which we believe to be cannabis plants. The scientist has taken them off to be examined."
Officers also found several plant pots in a vehicle at the property which Sgt Hale said he "believed had recently had cannabis growing in them".
He continued: "It is still a criminal offence to possess or to cultivate cannabis and softer drugs can lead on to harder drugs and it's important we continue to enforce the legislation."
But David (sic)* Barnard, a spokesperson for the Legalise Cannabis Alliance, said: "The police really must justify the reasons for raiding people for cannabis. If they went in just for cannabis then that's really out of order and
they should be ashamed of themselves."
Mr Barnard continued: "I find it very sad when they raid for cannabis - all that for a little bit of dope. I think it's a waste of time.
"How much did it cost and how much will it cost if they process that through a court? It absolutely amazes me."