Pubdate: Fri, 05 Apr 2002 Source: Kitchener-Waterloo Record (CN ON) Copyright: 2002 Kitchener-Waterloo Record Contact: http://www.therecord.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/225 Author: Don Mortimer NAB THE POT GROWERS I have become aware of the problems associated with trying to apprehend and punish the persons involved in growing pot. The problems appear to be getting enough evidence to support a conviction for growing pot and getting a sentence that will satisfy the police and Crown on the charges involved. There is a very simple solution: charge the people involved with theft of the hydro involved to grow the plants to the stage of maturity at the time of the police raid. Something which is most puzzling is why the hydro utilities have not been able to detect these extraordinary loads on their systems. The technology exists and is in use in industry. An electrical utility the size of the ones in Kitchener-Waterloo should have this equipment for use in their daily maintenance programs. One common thread is in the underground feed to the grow houses. All they have to do is check transformers that feed underground wiring and when they come across an unusual load, follow the line to where the extra load goes down an underground feed. The time required to check a transformer or other location would be 10 to 20 minutes and would not involve trespassing on private property. Don Mortimer Listowel - --- MAP posted-by: Beth