Criminals set up cannabis farm in home of ‘desperate and naive’ Sunderland mum

Former businesswoman Natalie Crinson, who had lost her employment and was homeless, was given a bond to secure somewhere to live in exchange for allowing rooms to be converted to grow illegal plants.

Newcastle Crown Court heard when police raided the 37-year-old's home at Cleveland Road, Sunderland, last May, they found large and sophisticated cannabis farm containing a crop worth up to £82,750 on the streets.

Prosecutor Kevin Wardlaw told the court: "It is apparent, both to the police and prosecution, that given the scale and sophistication of the enterprise, she wasn't responsible for setting up the farm."

Mr Wardlaw added: "Three rooms had been turned over to the production of cannabis. A total of 154 plants were recovered from those rooms.

"There was lighting and extraction required to successfully grow the cannabis.

"This was a substantial farm, a substantial enterprise."

Mr Wardlaw said the cannabis crop could have been sold on the streets for between £49,000 and £82,750.

Crinson, who has no previous convictions, pleaded guilty to being concerned in the production of a class B drug.

Mr Wardlaw said Crinson submitted a basis of plea, which has been accepted by the prosecution and added: "The basis states the defendant had been homeless for a number of months, living wherever she was able to secure a bed for the night.

"She was approached by two men, who she is unable to name through fear of repercussions. They said they would provide her with a bond on the understanding that, once paid, they would be allowed access to grow and harvest a crop of cannabis."

Judge Tim Gittins sentenced Crinson to a community order for 18 months with rehabilitation requirements.

The judge said Crinson chose a "foolish and criminal way out of the situation in a moment of crisis" and added she was "undoubtedly naive".

Judge Gittins told her: "By allowing them to operate in the premises you were looking after and renting you were potentially enabling serious criminals to make tens of thousands of pound of profit.

"They've got away with it scott-free and you are the one sitting in the dock."

Vic Laffey, defending, said Crinson lost her home when he landlord sold the property she was living in and her business failed.

Mr Laffey added: "For a few months she found herself in a situation where she was moving from pillar to post, living with whoever was able to give her a bed for the night.

"When she was approached by the individuals who took advantage of the situation and suggested she get involved in this operation she was, at that time, desperate and naive."

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