Cannabis factory opposite police station

A self-employed plasterer has been locked up after a large-scale cannabis cultivation was found in a building directly across the street from Wishaw police station.

Officers seized 118 plants, worth more than £70,000, from the Stewarton Street property.

Hamilton Sheriff Court heard on Friday that Paul McCann was caught red-handed with the keys and fainted when detained by the police.

McCann, 41, of Buller Crescent, Blantyre, admitted producing cannabis and being concerned in the supply of the drug.

Abby Seal, prosecuting, said he was seen putting power drills in the back of a Ford Transit van outside the building on June 18, 2020.

Ms Seal told the court : “Police officers detected a strong smell of cannabis and detained him.

“As they walked towards the premises, the accused became extremely nervous and fainted.

“Officers opened the door and could smell cannabis and hear fans running.

“During a search 118 cannabis plants were found as well as 99 cannabis seedlings.

“Th e accused’s phone was examined and revealed conversations involving equipment for the premises.

“There would have been a substantial financial outlay to obtain items such as duct tape, fans, bags of pebbles and cooling tubes.

“The estimated cost of the equipment found is £23,000.

“Specialist officers say it was commercial-level production of cannabis.”

Defence agent Laura Kiernan said McCann suffers from poor mental health, adding: “He appreciates the predicament he finds himself in.”

Sheriff Andrew McInt y re deferred sentence until next month for a criminal justice social work report and refused to continue bail.

The sheriff told McCann: “These are exceptionally serious charges.

“Given the strong likelihood of a prison sentence and the fact you were involved to a large extent in the production and supply of cannabis, you will be remanded in custody.”