POT KEEPS COPS IN FIGHTING SHAPE

The West Shore RCMP shut down five more grow-ops in the Western
Communities last week in an effort to put a dent in the area's
budding illegal cottage industry.

One operation raided last Thursday, in a duplex on Jacklin Road, was
of particular concern to police because it is situated directly
across the street from Belmont senior secondary school. Police found
17 high-potency plants, all in the drying stage, ready for sale on
the street.

"We don't feel like we're fighting a losing battle, but it's an
uphill struggle," Cpl. Brian Kerr said.

"I think we're getting the message across, and hopefully discouraging
more people from getting involved in this kind of activity."

Damage to the rented suite was extensive, with holes cut through the
ceiling and the walls to facilitate ventilation. Charges are pending
against two males.

The day before, 147 young plants were removed from a house at 2284
Millstream Road. According to investigators, the home was
uninhabited, but was filled with more than $10,000 worth of growing
equipment.

"The people obviously knew what they were doing," Kerr said.

After investigators noted "poor" electrical wiring in the house, they
notified BC Hydro, which later cut off all electricity to the
building.

Police are still investigating the case and have not yet laid any charges.

The same team of officers are also investigating three separate grow
sites discovered on Capital Regional District land behind Thetis Lake
off of Highland Road on July 10.