Penrith RES investigators have charged a man after uncovering a hydroponic cannabis set-up and multiple personal identification documents in Sydney's west.
Just after 8pm yesterday (Monday 23 November 2020), officers from Penrith Region Enforcement Squad (RES), with assistance from North West Metropolitan Operations Support Group (OSG), executed a crime scene warrant at a home at Sunshine Avenue, Penrith.
Upon entry, a 40-year-old man allegedly attempted to run from police before being arrested.
During the search of the home, police located a sophisticated hydroponic cannabis set-up and seized 122 cannabis plants, with an estimated potential street value of $610,000.
Officers also seized equipment consistent with the cultivation and supply of cannabis.
In a subsequent search of a blue Toyota Camry at the property, Penrith RES investigators located and seized a folder containing a large quantity of personal identification documents, including NSW and interstate drivers' licences.
The man was taken to Penrith Police Station and charged with cultivate prohibited plant (commercial quantity), use/consume/waste etc electricity without authority and possess identity info to commit indictable offence.
He was refused bail to appear at Penrith Local Court today (Tuesday 24 November 2020).
Signs of a hydro house can include;
• Increased security measures (roller shutters, fences, vicious dogs in the yard),
• Increased use of electricity,
• Increased use of water,
• Illegal connection to electrical supply,
• Condensation on windows,
• Continual running of generators and lights,
• Disposal of large amounts of garbage,
• Large quantities of chemicals and fertilisers around the premises,
• Locks or other methods in place to prevent access to the electricity meter box,
• Discarded plastic containers and strong odours (fertilisers, liquid and bagged growing cultures).
Anyone with information about the cultivation and supply of cannabis is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.
