FAMILY GROW OP BUSTED

Cultivating family ties took on a whole new meaning when a mom, dad
and their 16-year-old daughter were all busted for their alleged
involvement in a marijuana grow operation.

"We're seeing more mom and pop-type grow operations here," said
Lethbridge Police Service Staff Sgt. Jim Carriere.

"That's no surprise because the profits are high and the risk is low
- -- we don't think the penalties from the courts are much of a deterrent."

Police busted the alleged operation Tuesday after receiving a tip from
the public.

They found a three-stage marijuana grow operation consisting of 133
plants inside the home. In addition to the plants, cops seized four
pounds of harvested marijuana buds and assorted grow equipment.

The estimated street value of the grass is $200,000.

"The migration of these large-scale, high-profit marijuana grow
operations to centres such as Lethbridge is consistent with trends
throughout the province," Carriere said.

Police said the operation was a low-tech affair and the electrical
wiring used was flimsy and put the home at risk of fire.

Police said they were also concerned about health conditions in the
home.

"I'm not an expert in health but the amount of mould and mildew was
very disturbing," Carriere said.

A 44-year-old male, a 46-year-old female and a 16-year-old female were
charged with production of a controlled substance and possession of a
controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking. None can be named
to protect the identity of the teen.

She will appear in Lethbridge youth court Dec. 17, a day before her
parents have a date with a judge.