Suspected drug dealer accidently shows Police video of cannabis farm on his phone
A suspected drug dealer who was stopped by police, accidently showed officers a video of a cannabis farm – while trying to access Google Translate.
On Wednesday evening (December 9) officers were on patrol in the Rainton Bridge area of Houghton-le-Spring when they stopped a grey Mercedes.
After stopping the car and speaking to the people inside, officers noticed the strong smell of cannabis – but didn't find anything after searching the car.
One of the men did not use English as his first language, so opened up his phone to click on Google Translate - but much to his horror, a video appeared on his screen which showed a significant cannabis farm in operation.
Officers placed the pair under arrest, and after further enquiries, went to a property in Easington Lane, which was found to be the base for a significant cannabis operation.
More than 600 cannabis plants in various stages of growth were found covering three floors. The farm was subsequently dismantled and the drugs seized.
Sergeant Steve Passey, of Northumbria Police, said: “This was a rather unusual incident which saw a suspect open up his phone to try and use Google Translate – but inadvertently showed us a video of a cannabis farm in the area.
“Inside, a sophisticated cannabis operation was found and we have now been able to dismantle that and ensure those drugs do not make their way onto our streets.
“Quite often, cannabis farms such as these can be used to fund more serious criminality across the region, so this seizure will provide a dent in the pockets of those behind it.
“I’d also stress that these cannabis farms can be a potential death trap – often the electricity has been by-passed which poses a serious and real fire risk to not only the property involved, but families living in the vicinity.
“We do not apologise for our robust stance towards this type of criminality, and under the banner of Operation Sentinel, we will continue to target serious criminals and put those who undermine the fabric of our communities behind bars.”
The two men – aged 38 and 22 – were arrested on suspicion of the production of a Class B drug. They have since been released on police bail, and enquiries are ongoing.