POLICE NIP GROW HOUSES IN THE BUD BRINGING YEAR'S TOTAL TO TWO DOZEN

Police busted two marijuana grow houses last week, bringing their total to
more than two dozen in the community over the past 10 months. The first
bust came last Wednesday at an apartment at 10 Martha Eaton Way, near
Trethewey and Black Creek drives, where police found 600 plants in various
stages of growth worth an estimated street value of $590,000.

One suspect was arrested nearby and charged in connection with the grow
operation. The police investigation is continuing and further arrests are
expected.

Lien Nguyen, 56, of Toronto, was charged with producing and possessing
marijuana.

Two days later, 12 Division police discovered another grow house on Weston
Road, where they found 194 marijuana plants valued at $194,000.

Drug squad officers and 12 Division major crime unit officers dismantled
the operation. A warrant has been issued for Tat Thang Nguyen, 33. He faces
numerous charges, including possession of marijuana for the purpose of
trafficking.

Police have found more than 24 grow operations over the last 10 months and
warn the number is growing due to limited police resources, low public
awareness, large profits and light penalties for perpetrators.

Police are warning apartment buildings tenants to be alert to any unusual
activity by their neighbours or things such as water leaks coming from
apartments. Residents are encouraged to call Crime Stoppers at 416-222-TIPS
or notify their superintendents about any suspicions or potential fire hazards.