Illegal cannabis products seized
On Friday, Oct. 25, 2019 Edmonton Police Service Cannabis Investigations Unit conducted a search warrant at an address in the area of 157 Avenue and 80 Street. Inside, police uncovered a grow operation that included approximately 130 viable cannabis plants, as well as dried cannabis, illegal cannabis edibles, psilocybin mushrooms and cannabis manufacturing equipment. The total seizure is estimated to be worth more than $148,000.
Ryan Paton, 35, is charged with possession of a controlled substance under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, as well as possession of cannabis for the purpose of unlawful distribution and cultivate or propagate more than four plants in a dwelling house, both charges under the federal Cannabis Act.
“Just like alcohol, cannabis is a regulated product,” says Cst. Dexx Williams, EPS Cannabis Compliance Officer. “If you’re going to produce it at home, you need to comply with all municipal, provincial and federal requirements. If not, you could face criminal and provincial charges, along with substantial financial setbacks in order to bring your property into compliance.”
It is legal for citizens to grow up to four plants per household for personal use. In order to legally grow more than four plants for medical reasons, or to grow cannabis that is intended for sale, growers must apply for a license through Health Canada and adhere to all municipal and provincial regulations, such as development permits and safety codes.