In Airdrie, a cannabis grower admitted to producing plants for family and friends, claiming his hobby spiraled out of control.
Gary McLean, 53, from Coatbridge, faced legal issues after police found dozens of cannabis plants in his loft. He stated that his hobby had “got out of control” as he supplied cannabis to family and friends.
McLean appeared at Airdrie Sheriff Court this week. He admitted to producing cannabis and being involved in its supply at a flat on Parnell Street, Airdrie, in September 2024.
Prosecutor Flora McCamley explained that police obtained a search warrant based on intelligence about cannabis cultivation at the location. Officers later stopped McLean while he was driving in Coatbridge. Although no drugs were found in his vehicle, he informed them, “I have a ‘grow’ in the loft.”
Upon searching the loft, officers discovered 38 cannabis plants at various growth stages inside three tents. McLean admitted to starting cannabis cultivation as a hobby, which he claimed had spiraled out of control. He acknowledged providing cannabis to family and friends but denied any intention of making money from it.
However, messages found on two mobile phones suggested he was selling small amounts of the drug. The total value of the seized plants was estimated at £7,600.
Sheriff Paul Haran has deferred sentencing until February for background reports and an electronic tagging assessment.
| Date | Location | Defendant | Charges | Value of Plants | Court |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| September 2024 | Parnell Street, Airdrie | Gary McLean, 53 | Producing cannabis, concerned in its supply | £7,600 | Airdrie Sheriff Court |
