MARIJUANA PLANTS SEIZED ON COUNCILLOR'S PROPERTY

Over 1,600 marijuana plants were seized in Hamilton homes last week in
another drug bust by the Hamilton Police Service Vice and Drug Unit.

Hamilton Police were joined in their organized crime crackdown by the
Hamilton RCMP and the Moncton RCMP.

Police said the homes, located in residential neighbourhoods, were set-up
for commercial marijuana grow operations. Five people were charged by the
Hamilton Police Service.

Police said they have been conducting ongoing investigations of the city's
marijuana grow operations for some time.

Even Stoney Creek councillor David Mitchell has felt the impact of the drug
operations.

A family member discovered marijuana plants growing amidst his corn crop at
the back of his property last month.

Police eventually pulled 278 plants from the area, with an estimated street
value of $1,000 per plant. The plants were strategically planted among the
tall corn stalks.

"We can have a chuckle now, but it's a serious situation," said Mr. Mitchell.

Hamilton Police have been conducting air surveillance of rural lands,
looking for grow operations.

Police advise property owners to keep a watch on their property, especially
areas that are hidden and to watch out for chicken wire which protects the
plants.