Hartlepool man told police cannabis plants growing in his loft 'would last him about two years'

James Hubert Kenny, 61, of the town’s Milton Road pleaded guilty to a charge of the production of the drug when he appeared before Teesside Magistrates’ Court.

Lynne Dalton, prosecuting, said police found 16 plants when they visited Kenny’s home on October 28 this year.

She said: “Police attended Mr Kenny’s home and what they said was a cannabis farm was located in the loft area of the property.”

Ms Dalton said Kenny told the police he rented the property, but admitted he was responsible for the growth of the plants, which he wanted for his own personal use.

She said: “He said they would last him about two years.”

Andy McGee, defending, said his client has suffered from depression for some years and, although on medication from the doctor, he found using the plant helps him. But, he only smokes a small amount.

He said: “He pleaded guilty at the first available opportunity. He made full and frank admissions to the police.

“He started using cannabis as a way of relaxing.”

Mr McGee said someone told Kenny he could take some cuttings from their cannabis plants so that he could grow his own, which is what he did.

He added: “He is no longer growing it. He does still use it, but he is trying not to.”

Kenny was fined £120 and ordered to pay £85 costs and a surcharge of £32.