Man jailed after cops raid Renfrew flat and find 158 cannabis plants

We previously reported that Khanh Quoc Tran was caught growing 158 “healthy and well-maintained” cannabis plants within a flat in Vanguard Way on February 12.

He was back at Paisley Sheriff Court for sentencing.

Defence agent Mark Johnstone advised that his client wishes to return home after the expiration of any sentence. 

Sheriff Thomas Millar jailed Tran for 27 months, reduced from 36 months to reflect his early plea. 

Sentence was backdated to Tran’s remand date on February 13.

Procurator fiscal depute Jason Stark previously told the court: “Around 2.30pm on February 12, police attended the property in possession of a search warrant and general evidence warrant. 

“As officers arrived at the top landing outside of the flat, they were met by the accused who was hastily walking away.

“The accused appeared nervous and attempted to continue walking past the officers. 

“Police informed the accused of his detention.

“The accused did not appear to understand, and it was evident that he did not speak English.”

Officers “forced entry” into the flat and discovered a cannabis cultivation within. 

Mr Stark added: “Police searched the accused and he was found to have a key to the property in his right jacket pocket. 

“Police carried out a search of the property and found a total of 158 plants in two stages of growth.

“The kitchen had a makeshift living quarter comprising of a mattress on the floor and clothing stored in the lower food cupboards.

“The upper cupboards contained dry food products and there was food in the fridge.

“The living room had been converted for the sole purpose of producing cannabis. 

“The entire room from floor to ceiling was lined with plastic sheeting which covered the windows and walls. 

“There were 45 medium sized plants growing with small buds beginning to appear on the plants. 

“The two bedrooms at the other side of the hallway had also been converted for the sole purpose of producing cannabis.”

The town’s court heard one room had 35 “medium sized plants” alongside a large air filter, 11 heat lamps and a thermometer.

In the second bedroom, there were 78 “small plants within plant pots,” alongside heat lamps and a wall mounted fan.

Mr Stark explained the plants were analysed and it was concluded all 158 plants “appeared healthy and well maintained” giving them an approximate value of between £31,600 and £94,800.