Do you know how to spot the signs of a Cannabis farm?

During the month of May, over 20 Cannabis grows of different sizes have been discovered by Cleveland Police. These have been properties such as flats, terraced and semi-detached houses and commercial / industrial premises which appear to be empty.

Cannabis Farms cause misery across the communities in Teesside and Cleveland Police is asking for information to help identify where they are.

The criminals who operate these farms have no regard for the safety of local residents, bypassing electricity, discarding rubbish and potentially causing fatal fire risks for neighbours.

Signs that might indicate a premises is being used as a Cannabis farm include:

• The property might look empty or unlived in
• People and vehicles coming and going during the day and night
• Large boxes, pipes, Lighting equipment, plastic sheeting, bags of fertilizer or building materials are seen going into the premises at different times
• Fans which might be seen or heard by neighbours
• A smell of the plants on occasion which comes and goes
• Building work going on inside the premises

Cleveland Police is working alongside communities, housing agencies, energy providers, neighbouring forces and retailers to crack down on this scourge in our communities, but the information held by communities across Teesside is vital to ensure those who run these farms are brought to justice.

Contact Cleveland Police by dialling 101 and passing on information to the control room.

Alternatively, you can remain anonymous by contacting Crimestoppers, an independent charity, on 0800 555 111.