RCMP SEEK TAXES, PROPERTY AFTER GROW-OP FOUND

The Slocan Lake RCMP detachment has engaged a number of government
agencies following a March 8 search of a Slocan residence that
revealed a marijuana grow operation consisting of over 400 plants.

Cpl. Todd Bowden says two Slocan residents are facing charges under
the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act following the execution of a
search warrant at the residence.

The Canada Revenue Agency is currently estimating past revenues from
the grow operation to compare with income taxes paid, says Cpl.
Bowden. "They will go back and do an assessment of what that person
was bringing in, or what they likely brought in, based on [the
RCMP's] findings and Canada Revenue Agency's findings and then we'll
come up with an estimate of income for the past however long they
feel this operation has been operating."

Cpl. Bowden says the next step would be to do a tax assessment based
on that estimate and pursue possible criminal tax evasion charges and
seek to collect unpaid taxes.

The RCMP have also contacted the Ministry of Children and Family
Development because of concerns about children residing near hazards
related to grow operations including, criminal activity, mould,
pollen, insects, electrical and chemical hazards, as well as the
vulnerability of grow operations to armed criminal raids.

In addition, the Slocan Lake Detachment directed Fortis Utilities to
disconnect the residence's electrical service after modified
electrical wiring was found at the home. Electricity was cut off at
the street and the meter was removed.

The occupant of the residence, as well as a couple from outside the
area with interest in the property, have been served with notices
from the Supreme Court of B.C. that the property has been seized by
the B.C. department of Justice "with a view toward ultimate
forfeiture to the Crown," stated an RCMP release.

The RCMP are encouraging those involved with marijuana grow
operations to discontinue the practice. "Police remind the public of
the many hazards associated with drug production and trafficking and
encourage those engaged in the industry to seek what assistance they
can to end their involvement in these activities. Police also welcome
any new information relating to the illicit production or
distribution of controlled drugs or substances," read a statement
from the Slocan Lake RCMP detachment.

The RCMP encourage the public to provide information on grow
operations or other illegal activities. Information can be provided
to either police or anonymously to the Provincial Crimestoppers
agency at 1-800-222-TIPS.