Flat Hired For Cannabis-Growing Operation

A young single-mum who hired out her flat for use as a DIY cannabis-growing factory has dodged jail with a suspended sentence.

Samantha Francis, 21, of Chiltern Drive, Surbiton stayed with her parents at another address while 45 plants were grown underneath tents erected inside her home.

She pleaded guilty at Kingston-upon-Thames Crown Court (pictured) to permitting premises to be used for the cultivation of cannabis between January 1 and February 22.

When arrested by police Francis was initially evasive, but later admitted she knew what was going on, but was not involved in the day-to-day growing operation or shared in profits.

Judge Paul Dodgson told the first-time offender: “You have been stupid and you know it. Being involved in the production of cannabis is something deserving of a custodial sentence.

“You were approached and saw a way of making easy money,” added the Judge. “You did not think of the consequences and once you started you could not get out of it.”

Francis was sentenced to twelve months’ imprisonment, suspended for two years, was ordered to perform 120 hours community service work and obey a nighttime curfew for three months.