Crime of the Week - Watch out for grow ops

Crime Stoppers of Simcoe-Dufferin Muskoka and your local Police Service are asking for the assistance of the public in helping to abolish residential drug operations. Home grow operations are modified houses that are used to grow large amounts of marihuana. Significant changes are made to them in order to supply light, water and ventilation to the plants. Illegal hydro bypasses can cause charging of the ground outside which can create shock and electrocution hazards to unsuspecting victims such as neighbours, children and meter readers. A home grow can steal upwards of $1,000 of electricity a month and can generate revenue of up to $1 million per year. The cost of these houses affects us all in one way or another.

Whether it's through rising hydro bills, house insurance, loss of home equity, or increased criminal activities. However, the cost of working together to have a safer community is priceless.

If you have any information regarding these types of crimes and wish to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). Crime Stoppers does not subscribe to call display. Being anonymous, you will not testify in court.

Your information may lead to a cash reward of up to $2,000.