As illegal marijuana crops are now being prepared for distribution, police are reminding residents to be aware of safety risks near marijuana growing and processing locations.
The OPP is pro-actively warning everyone there are many safety risks associated with the annual marijuana harvest and distribution process. During this time of year, many outdoor marijuana crops have been harvested or soon will be harvested.
Criminals involved in the production of illegal marijuana sometimes take advantage of rural areas. They may seek out properties that are located near swamps, cornfields, wooded areas, along rivers, or rental properties with large acreage.
The OPP is warning people who own or occupy premises used for the growing and processing of marijuana, that they are not only jeopardizing their own safety but also the safety of their families and other occupants.
Anyone with information regarding illegal marijuana grow-ops can contact the OPP, their local police service or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).
Advice from the OPP
Marijuana plants are bright green in colour and grow to between three and five feet in height. Marijuana leaves have seven jagged fingers and the plants give off a strong, pungent, musty odour.
Ontario-grown marijuana is typically distributed throughout the province and exported to the United States. Drugs, such as cocaine, as well as weapons and cash, often return to Ontario to fuel other criminal enterprises.
In 2010, OPP Drug Enforcement Unit and its partners investigated 586 indoor and outdoor marijuana grows, destroying 218,168 marijuana plants. Another 2,190 kilograms of dried marijuana was confiscated, bringing the total value of seized marijuana to $258 million.
Anyone who discovers or suspects an outdoor marijuana grow operation should:
– as soon as possible, call the local police or Crime Stoppers;
– not touch the marijuana plants due to potential chemical residue on the plants;
– if confronted by a marijuana grower, leave the area immediately and contact police;
– if possible and safe to do so, record any license plate or GPS information and notify police; and
– not enter the area; in some cases, outdoor marijuana grows are guarded or protected by booby traps. For personal safety, turn around and immediately leave the area the same way it was accessed.
Anyone with information regarding illegal marijuana grow-ops, can contact their local police service or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).
