Pubdate: Tue, 10 Jan 2006
Source: Metro (CN BC)
Copyright: Metro 2006
Contact:  http://www.metronews.ca/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3775
Author: Tia Abell
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/mjcn.htm (Cannabis - Canada)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?241 (Methamphetamine - Canada)

GROW-OPS BECOMING CONCERN PROVINCEWIDE

Marijuana grow-ops and meth labs are becoming big problems for strata
corporations across the province.

"We probably get up to three phone calls a day regarding grow-ops (and
meth labs)," said Tony Gioventu, executive director of the Condominium
Home Owners' Association of B.C.

"It's a chronic problem for strata corporations; people can get into
these quiet little places and move in their equipment. And 1,000
square feet are more than enough for a profitable grow op business."

The operations usually hide their energy consumption by stealing power
from common sources -- leaving stratas holding the bag for the
operation's energy costs.

Gioventu added that grow ops and the toxic-chemical laden meth labs
often damage neighbouring suites.

"Moisture knows no boundaries. (The damage) has to be in the millions
per year," he said.

And none of it is covered by insurance.

Vancouver Police Const. Howard Chow said the department doesn't keep
specific numbers on how many grow-ops in condos and townhouses the
police bust.

Most grow-ops they find are in houses, he added.

"We generally see upwards of $1 million of street plants weekly --
that's usually about two to six operations a week," Chow said.
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MAP posted-by: Larry Seguin