(NORFOLK COUNTY, ON) – The corn is growing this summer which often means illegal marihuana grow operations are growing as well and the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), Norfolk County OPP Detachment is urging everyone to be cautious and call police if you come across these plants.
Typically, these illicit crops are located in swamps, cornfields, wooded areas, along rivers and on rural rental properties obscured from view. Marihuana plants are bright green in colour and can grow between three and five feet tall and give off a distinctive, strong pungent musty odor.
Common indicators of outdoor marihuana grow-ops include:
Abandoned vehicles parked in secluded areas
People observed walking in remote areas for no apparent reason
Bags of fertilizer, planting trays or chemicals located in remote areas
Well-trampled trails in wooded areas, swamp areas or fields
Cleared out areas in swamps, wooded areas or cornfields
Recent posting of “No Trespassing” signs
Should you inadvertently come across one or more of these plants, there are some safety risks to be wary of. There is the potential for the presence of weapons and ammunition near grow-op sites and booby traps set up to protect the criminal’s illegal crops. As well, there are many environmental risks associated with marihuana grow-ops as they often involve the use of many unregulated, environmentally-damaging products.
Police are providing the following tips for the public should they come across a suspected outdoor marihuana grow operation:
Call police or Crime Stoppers as soon as possible.
Avoid coming in contact with any plants due to potential chemical residue on the plants.
In some cases, outdoor marihuana grows are guarded or protected by booby traps. If you discover a crop of marihuana plants, do NOT enter the area. Turn around and leave the area the same way you came in.
Call police to have the marihuana disposed of safely. Do not attempt to remove it yourself.
Discuss with your children what to look for and what to do should they come across marihuana crops.
If you have any information regarding illegal marihuana grow operations, or if you observe any suspicious activity in your area, contact your local police or the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-4-8477 (TIPS).