Court Decison May Hinder Cities Grow-Op Program

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A B.C. Supreme Court case may challenge one of the main underpinnings of Surrey’s new grow-op program.

Last week, a BCSC judge ruled B.C. Hydro had to return power to a South Surrey home after shutting it off because police escorted municipal inspectors onto the property.

This was deemed equivalent to a warrantless search by police.

Under Surrey’s program, high consumers of power are served warning of a pending municipal inspection.

High power consumption is a sign of a potential marijuana grow operation.

If the homeowner doesn’t permit the inspection, fire officials – sometimes escorted by police – return to enter the home.

Fire Chief Len Garis, who heads Surrey’s program, said it will continue to operate “status quo” for the foreseeable future. He wouldn’t comment on the case before the courts, but said a legal team is watching it closely.



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Source: Peace Arch News
Author: Kevin Diakiw
Contact: Peace Arch News
Copyright: 2007 Peace Arch News
Website: BCNG Portals Page