Albanian man admits growing cannabis in Alfreton

An Albanian man has pleaded guilty to growing cannabis worth thousands of pounds at a house in Alfreton.

Following a report from a member of the local community about a strong smell of cannabis, officers searched the property in Hall Street, Alfreton on 5 January.

Inside they found 44 plants, estimated to have a street value of £16,500 with more buds found drying worth an estimated £21,000.

Lavdim Jukupi, of Ashford Street, Shelton in Stoke-on-Trent, was seen trying to leave the address and was arrested by officers.

The 31-year-old was charged with cultivation of cannabis plants, pleaded guilty at court and was remanded to prison. He will be sentenced on Monday, 30 January.

Sergeant James Bowler, who leads the local policing team in Alfreton, said: “Cannabis grows pose a really serious risk to our communities and I want to thank those who came forward with the information regarding this grow.

“As is so often the case the electrical supply to feed the drugs grow had been tampered with and, after it was checked by a specialist, was found to have been a very serious fire risk.

“If you are concerned that criminals may be operating in your area then you can contact the force, in confidence, at any time.”

There are a number of signs that may indicated that cannabis may be being grown in your area.

These include:

• Are the curtains permanently closed or windows covered?
• Is there a loud or distinctive sound of fans whirring?
• Are there a large number of food deliveries being made to the property?
• Have you never seen those living inside the address?
• Is there a distinct smell of cannabis from the property?

If you believe a cannabis grow may be in your area then you can contact us, in confidence, using any of the below methods:

• Facebook – send us a private message to our Facebook page
• Twitter – direct message our contact centre via @DerPolContact
• Website – We have several crime reporting tools on our website or use our online contact form
• Phone – Call us on 101

You can also anonymously contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111, or by visiting the Crimestoppers website.