Man jailed for growing drugs

Police in Rotherham received intelligence of persons growing cannabis and searched addresses in Tickhill Road and Nelson Road in Maltby.

Bridie Scott, 50, and 36-year-old Lee Scott were arrested at the property on Tickhill Road on suspicion of production of cannabis, when officers found 12 plants in the upstairs bedroom.

A second property searched on Nelson Road, found eight cannabis plants and 42-year-old Christine Guffick was arrested for suspicion of production of cannabis.

All three are required to carry out 150 hours of unpaid work.

Forensic evidence gathered at both properties led police to 36-year-old Matthew Prentice of Muglet Lane. He was arrested and when hydroponic equipment was found was charged with two counts of production of cannabis.

He appeared at Sheffield Crown Court on 17th December and received 18 months imprisonment.

PC Wayne Nuttall said: “The sentence Prentice received should send out a strong warning for anyone who persuades others to grow cannabis at their home address.”

“With the current economic situation, individuals like Prentice are preying on the vulnerable and those who are experiencing financial difficulties.”

“People allowing cannabis to be grown within their property are clearly committing offences and could also be subject to a prison term and possibly eviction from their home.”

Chief Superintendent Jason Harwin thanked the public for support in identifying offenders.

He added: “Drugs do destroy lives and we will continue to do everything we can to reduce the risk such offences bring to local communities and ensure offenders are brought to justice.”