Cannabis grower who hid in attic during police raid jailed

Officers forced their way into the address by cutting through the door during a morning raid.

Nottinghamshire Police found 121 plants and growing equipment.

Arnold Elezi, 29, was also found hiding in the loft after scurrying up a ladder when he heard the police.

Elezi was handed a two-year prison sentence after pleading guilty at Nottingham Crown Court.

Inspector Paul Ferguson said: “This is a prime example of how our police teams are working together to take positive action against concerns, such as drug crime, which adversely affect our communities.

“People may think the cultivation of cannabis is a victimless crime, but what they don’t realise is those at the top of the criminal chain make very large sums of money from producing and distributing the drug, while often exploiting vulnerable people at the same time.”

All the cannabis was removed from the property in Rushcliffe Rise, Sherwood.

Equipment at Elezi's address was also seized.

Inspector Ferguson added: “We’re absolutely committed to doing everything we can to root out drug operations like this from our community and put the people behind them before the courts.”

“Tackling and preventing drug harm remains a policing priority for us in the city north area and this successful warrant highlights why it’s so important people report any suspicions they have around drug activity to the police.

“As a result of us being made aware of these suspicions, we were able to act and shut down this household cannabis farm before it caused any more harm.

“We’re absolutely committed to doing everything we can to root out drug operations like this from our community and put the people behind them before the courts.

“I want to reassure residents we will continue to act on information to disrupt those involved in drug crime and do everything in our power to bring them to justice.”