Pubdate: Tue, 20 May 2008 Source: Arrow Lakes News (CN BC) Copyright: 2008 Arrow Lakes News Contact: http://www.arrowlakesnews.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2309 Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/af.htm (Asset Forfeiture) Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/mjcn.htm (Cannabis - Canada) RCMP SEEK TAXES, PROPERTY AFTER GROW-OP FOUND The Slocan Lake RCMP detachment has engaged a number of government agencies following a March 8 search of a Slocan residence that revealed a marijuana grow operation consisting of over 400 plants. Cpl. Todd Bowden says two Slocan residents are facing charges under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act following the execution of a search warrant at the residence. The Canada Revenue Agency is currently estimating past revenues from the grow operation to compare with income taxes paid, says Cpl. Bowden. "They will go back and do an assessment of what that person was bringing in, or what they likely brought in, based on [the RCMP's] findings and Canada Revenue Agency's findings and then we'll come up with an estimate of income for the past however long they feel this operation has been operating." Cpl. Bowden says the next step would be to do a tax assessment based on that estimate and pursue possible criminal tax evasion charges and seek to collect unpaid taxes. The RCMP have also contacted the Ministry of Children and Family Development because of concerns about children residing near hazards related to grow operations including, criminal activity, mould, pollen, insects, electrical and chemical hazards, as well as the vulnerability of grow operations to armed criminal raids. In addition, the Slocan Lake Detachment directed Fortis Utilities to disconnect the residence's electrical service after modified electrical wiring was found at the home. Electricity was cut off at the street and the meter was removed. The occupant of the residence, as well as a couple from outside the area with interest in the property, have been served with notices from the Supreme Court of B.C. that the property has been seized by the B.C. department of Justice "with a view toward ultimate forfeiture to the Crown," stated an RCMP release. The RCMP are encouraging those involved with marijuana grow operations to discontinue the practice. "Police remind the public of the many hazards associated with drug production and trafficking and encourage those engaged in the industry to seek what assistance they can to end their involvement in these activities. Police also welcome any new information relating to the illicit production or distribution of controlled drugs or substances," read a statement from the Slocan Lake RCMP detachment. The RCMP encourage the public to provide information on grow operations or other illegal activities. Information can be provided to either police or anonymously to the Provincial Crimestoppers agency at 1-800-222-TIPS. - --- MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom