Pubdate: Mon, 20 Dec 2004
Source: Ashburton Guardian, The (New Zealand)
Copyright: 2004 The Ashburton Guardian
Contact:  http://www.ashburtonguardian.co.nz/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3192
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/pot.htm (Cannabis)

JAIL FOR METHVEN CANNABIS GROWER

A Methven man found cultivating cannabis with an estimated street value of 
between $21,000 and $27,000 was sentenced to 12 months' imprisonment yesterday.

Richard Peter Womersley, 21, a labourer, now residing in Rai Valley 
north-east of Nelson, appeared for sentencing in Timaru District Court on a 
variety of cannabis-related charges and possession of a firearm without a 
licence.

Womersley's property in Methven was searched by police in November. They 
found 62 cannabis plants growing in individual pots in a spare room, all 
about 60cm in height.

Fluorescent lights were in place and were operated by a timer. The windows 
were covered by black polythene and a dehumidifier was in the room. There 
was also a quantity of plant foods.

In the defendant's bedroom police found a pump-action shotgun and 17 
shotgun shells. Outside the house were 24 cannabis plants, described as 
seedlings.

Womersley claimed all of the cannabis was for his own use as he personally 
smoked about half an ounce a week.

Defence counsel Raoul Neave said Womersley was "in the grips of a 
significant cannabis addiction" which he was trying to bring under control. 
Mr Neave also said his client suffered from significant health problems.

Crown prosecutor Ian Murray said all the hallmarks of a commercial 
operation were present as the potential yield was far too much for the 
defendant to use himself.

Judge David Holderness said he found it difficult to accept the plants and 
seedlings were all for Womersley's own use although medical reports 
suggested a degree of self-medication was involved.

Given Womersley was a first offender and taking into account his medical 
background he was granted leave to apply for home detention.
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