POT-GROW OPERATION RAIDED

CAMBRIDGE -- Police seized 302 marijuana plants yesterday when they busted
an indoor growing operation in a Cambridge residential neighbourhood, the
second such raid in two days.

On Tuesday, drug officers raided a Water Street home in St. Jacobs and
seized about 541 plants, said Staff Sgt. Ray Massicotte, who heads the drug
branch of Waterloo regional police.

Yesterday's raid at 32 Tallowtree Pl. was the 14th so far this year. Last
year, there were 68 such raids.

Massicotte said police estimate there could be more than 200 home-grow
operations in the region.

"There are many in the region. No matter where you are, you are going to
have one in your neighbourhood within a five-minute walk. That is a
reality," Massicotte said.

"It is a clandestine laboratory in our neighbourhoods and I am worried
about the hazards they create," such as fires, chemical spills and
electrocutions, since most involve bypassing main hydro lines to get the
high level of electricity needed to feed their operations, Massicotte said.

"That is why we are remaining vigilant and doing whatever we can to
eliminate them."

A tip from officials with Cambridge and North Dumfries Hydro resulted in
yesterday's raid.

When they entered the house, they found 302 marijuana plants in various
stages of growth, Massicotte said.

Police estimate the value of a marijuana plant at about $1,000. A man was
arrested in the home. Shortly afterwards, officers arrested two women in a
van heading towards the house. Neighbours identified the women as people
who frequented the house, he said.

All three face numerous charges including production of marijuana,
possession of marijuana for the purpose of trafficking, and stealing hydro.

They are scheduled to appear for a bail hearing today.