Scots crook allowed his council house to be used as cannabis farm

A man in West Lothian allowed his council house to be used as a cannabis farm, leading to his arrest and subsequent court appearance. Richard Millar was found out after a housing official visited his home in Whitburn with a joiner to carry out necessary repairs. Upon receiving no response at the door, the joiner entered the property legally and discovered a substantial cannabis cultivation operation inside, valued at around £63,000.

The cultivation setup included a tent for seedlings in the hallway, a growing area with mature plants in the living room, and harvested buds drying in the bedroom. Millar had reportedly vacated the premises and moved in with his mother while others exploited the space to grow the illicit Class ‘B’ drug. The police were alerted by council authorities and subsequently conducted a search of the property on 8 March 2022.

Millar was charged with drug-related offences and appeared in Livingston Sheriff Court. He pleaded guilty to being involved in the supply of a controlled substance and was spared a custodial sentence, instead being ordered to complete 300 hours of unpaid work under a community payback order within 18 months. The court acknowledged Millar’s remorse, lack of prior convictions, and employment status, opting to give him a chance to make amends for his actions.

In conclusion, the case of Richard Millar highlights the consequences of allowing one’s property to be used for criminal activities. It serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding the law and the repercussions individuals may face for their involvement in illegal operations. Let this be a cautionary tale for others tempted to engage in similar unlawful behaviours.