Many people will have experienced encountering the smell of cannabis from a neighbouring property or one nearby. And while some might cite recent pushes towards decriminalisation, latest guidance from Nottinghamshire police outlines it's still very much an offence which is publishable by the law.
Nottinghamshire Police said its 'Not In My Neighbourhood' scheme shows the dangers posed by residential cannabis factories and gives advice on action to take if you suspect it's happening near you. Cannabis is a Class B controlled drug. . As such, it is unlawful to possess, supply, produce, import or export this drug except under a Home Office licence. It is also an offence to cultivate any plant of the genus Cannabis except under a Home Office licence.
The law
Cannabis is a Class B drug. Possession of a Class B drug is punishable by up to five years in prison, an unlimited fine or both. Supply of cannabis is punishable by up to 14 years in prison, an unlimited fine or both. Police can also issue a warning or an on-the-spot fine of £90 if you’re found with cannabis.
Not in my neighbourhood
Nottinghamshire Police said it is committed to robustly investigating crime associated with cannabis in its bid to protect the public. A spokesperson said: "Those who choose to grow cannabis at home must consider the impact and potential risks involved – not only to themselves and their own property, but also the wider neighbouring community.
Nottinghamshire Police said it asks members of the community to look out for signs that cannabis growers are active in their neighbourhood. It says its Not In My Neighbourhood shows the dangers posed by residential cannabis factories and gives advice on action to take.
Signs that could point to a cannabis cultivation include:
- Strong, sickly smell given off by cannabis plants.
- High levels of condensation.
- Constantly covered or blocked off windows.
- Cannabis growing equipment transported to and from house.
- External modifications to the property, like ventilation.
- Constant buzz of ventilation.
- People loitering.
- Strong and constant lighting day and night.
- Unsociable coming and going at all hours.
- Lots of power cables.
Advice for landlords and letting agents
Nottinghamshire Police advises the following: "If you own or let a property you need to be aware of your responsibility to ensure cannabis is not grown on your premises. Consequences of allowing cannabis cultivation include reduction in property values, increased insurance premiums, hostile tenants, and up to 14 years imprisonment and a criminal record."
I have found some drugs – what should I do?
If you have found prescription or illegal drugs, call Nottinghamshire Police on our 101 non-emergency number to arrange for an officer to collect them as soon as possible. Alternatively, you can also hand these in at your nearest police station.
Hypodermic needles
If you find a hypodermic needle in a public place, police ask that you do not touch it, hide it, kick it down the drain or put it in a dustbin, litterbin or toilet as someone else could eventually be injured. Contact your local city, borough or district who will arrange to safely recover them. If you have been injured by a needle you have found, you are advised to visit your local accident and emergency department as soon as possible for confidential help and advice.
I think I know someone might be growing or dealing drugs. What should I do?
See it? Report it
The police say they rely on you to be their eyes and ears to help tackle the problems that drugs cause in our communities. If you believe someone you know may be involved in the dealing or production of drugs, you can let us know by:
- Calling our 101 non-emergency number
- Calling Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111
- Reporting drugs activity in your area online via the Crimestoppers websiteCalling 999 in an emergency where you believe life or property may be at risk
Any information you provide will be treated in the strictest confidence. Police will ask you to provide as much information as possible so that we can thoroughly investigate any reports we receive, including: What you have seen, Names and addresses of anyone you think might be involved, Dates and times of when you have noticed suspicious activity and vehicle registration numbers of those you think might be involved. Police say that while they may not attend immediately, any information and intelligence you provide them with will be investigated appropriately to see if we can gather more evidence to increase our chance of a successful prosecution.
I have a drug problem – where can I get help?
There are a range of support services available for anyone who has been affected by drug abuse and addiction. A link of drug support services and advice is available below.
Ashfield District: 01623 450000
Bassetlaw District: 01909 533533
Broxtowe borough: 0115 917 7777
Gedling borough: 0115 901 3901
Mansfield district: 01623 463463
Newark and Sherwood: 01636 650 000
Nottingham city: 0115 915 2020
Rushcliffe borough: 0115 981 9911
