Cannabis plants unearthed

Published by Sonia for Cross Keys Homes in Housing and also in Communities, Environment

Cross Keys Homes has just taken possession of a property from a tenant following the discovery of several cannabis plants.

Ian Gellizeau, 49, previously of Mendip Grove, had received a suspended prison sentence following a police raid last year when it was discovered that he was growing cannabis plants in the Cross Keys Homes property.  He was charged with possession of class B drug and possession with intent to supply a class B drug. 

However, cannabis was found on the premises again following a number of further raids this year.  Because of his persistent breaches Cross Keys Homes served a notice to seek possession of the home from Gellizeau and at the subsequent court hearing the Judge stated that as Mr Gellizeau seemed to have a total disregard for the tenancy agreement he would award Cross Keys Homes possession of the Mendip Grove house.

Gemma Wood, Anti-Social Behaviour Manager at Cross Keys Homes, said:  “Mr Gellizeau showed a total disregard for his neighbours by using his property for using and supplying drugs. This was a seriously antisocial act that caused distress to his neighbours and the community at large. The Police evidence in this case secured Gellizeau’s eviction as his neighbours were too fearful of reprisals to attend court. This speaks for itself in terms of the effect his actions have had. We are really pleased with the result and hope that it serves as a warning to others that they too will lose their home if they choose to use it for any kind of illegal activity.”

Becky Marshall, Neighbourhood Manager (anti-social behaviour) at Cross Keys Homes, said:  ‘‘The crimes Gellizeau has committed are a serious breach of his tenancy.  Cross Keys Homes worked very closely with the Police to obtain possession of the property in this case but will always deal with this type of criminal behaviour robustly and in a way that will affect their everyday life very significantly by removing the roof over their head.’