Man escapes jail after cannabis farm is found at his home (From Croydon Guardian)

Man escapes jail after cannabis farm is found at his home

11:30am Friday 8th March 2013 in News By Leo Thomas

A South Norwood man arrested after a cannabis factory was found in his home has escaped jail.

Sean Kavanagh of Holmesdale Road, was arrested on June 19, last year, after police stopped his Ford Transit van in Bromley Road, Shortlands.

Officers smelt cannabis when speaking with the 38-year-old and a search of the vehicle uncovered a large amount of cannabis, which had been hidden behind panels in the van.

A further search of his home uncovered a cannabis factory, with 150 cannabis plants. Growing material, mobile phones and a quantity of dried cannabis were also found.

Kavanagh initially denied one count of possession with intent to supply cannabis and a charge of being concerned in production of cannabis, but changed his plea before the jury were sworn in.

On February 27, he was sentenced at Croydon Crown Court to ten months imprisonment, suspended for two years and was ordered to carry out 100 hours unpaid community work.