Man admits producing cannabis at home

A KINLOCHLEVEN man who had nine cannabis plants and quantities of the drug in his home was ordered to do 160 hours of unpaid work in the community after admitting producing the drug.

Greig Aitken, of Garbhein Crescent, had pleaded guilty to a charge of producing cannabis at his home on January 27 this year.

Fiscal Depute Robert Weir told Fort William Sheriff Court last week that when police searched Aitken’s home they found nine plants, with a value of between £250 and £900, and two quantities of cannabis worth a total of £400.

‘The accused said the cannabis plants and drug were for his own personal use and would last him about four to five months,’ said Mr Weir.

‘Officers also found a dehumidifier, a light, fan, hydroponic equipment, scales and trays.’

Defence agent Gerard Sweeney stressed there was no ‘supplying’ element in the crime his client was charged with. Sheriff MacDonald interjected: ‘What would he have needed the scales for if this was all for his personal use?’

Mr Sweeney replied that nearly every household in the country would probably have scales. Mr Sweeney said his client was ‘a decent chap’ and used cannabis to help alleviate pain from neck and back problems.

Sentencing Aitken, 38, Sheriff MacDonald said it was a serious offence. ‘I am persuaded I can deal with this by way of a community payback order as a direct alternative to custody and this will be 160 hours of unpaid work.’