NOW YORK'S GONE TO POT

Drug Grows Out Of Control: Cops

Two marijuana-growing operations in Vaughan were raided yesterday as part
of a two-month hydroponic blitz launched Monday by York drug cops.

Morality and vice Det. Mike Klimm said, so far this week, his unit has
raided five homes, cutting down 1,928 marijuana plants, which have a street
value of almost $2 million. Police also seized $181,000 worth of hydroponic
equipment.

Out Of Control

Klimm estimated that one out of every 100 homes in York is a grow
operation, with about 1,500 suspected operations in the region.

"There's just so many grows," Klimm said. "Seriously, it's out of control.
Markham Hydro says one in 100 homes ... in York Region is a marijuana grow."

He said the utility's estimate is based on the frequency of diverted fuse
panels used to steal electricity for feeding hydroponic operations.

"We did 1,400 warrants last year in the province," said Klimm, noting that,
in 2001, Ontario police raided 300.

The object of the blitz, said Klimm, is "to let organized crime know
they're not welcome in York Region."

National Strategy

Ottawa Police Staff-Sgt. Mark Pinault, coordinator of the national strategy
against marijuana grows, took part in yesterday's raids and is developing a
country-wide enforcement strategy.

Yesterday, police first raided a home on Belvia Dr., in the Dufferin
St.-Rutherford Rd. area, seizing about 450 plants. Shortly after, police
moved on another home on Sunset Ridge, in the Major Mackenzie Dr.-Islington
Ave. area, where 270 plants were cut down.