Sunshine Coast RCMP dismantled a large marijuana grow-op in Roberts Creek last week, and although police records indicate the individuals involved have links to organized crime, no charges will be laid.
On April 15, RCMP Street Crew members had planned to raid the property once they received a search warrant enabling them to do so. While waiting for the warrant, however, extenuating circumstances developed and the RCMP was made aware the grow-op was not only being taken down, but also evidence was being destroyed. Officers made the decision to enter the property before the search warrant was granted.
As a result, 1,200 plants were seized. B.C. Hydro attended the scene where they located two electrical bypasses, one from the transformer and the second from the hydro meter. While looking for the hydro diversion, a substantial amount of mould was found behind the insulation of the walls. A Sunshine Coast Regional District building inspector was called in and posted a no-occupancy sign on the residence.
RCMP Const. Glen Martin was unable to comment on the incident, but did refer to grow-ops as a problem. He also pointed out the recent violent incidents in the Lower Mainland surrounding grow-rips.
"When people go in and steal the marijuana, it's usually at gun point. It's a very scary thing."
The Roberts Creek incident is being filed as a "no-case seizure."