Man jailed after more than 570 cannabis plants found in house in High Beech

Cannabis plants in various stages of growth were found inside the property (credit: Essex Police)

A man has been jailed after officers found 571 cannabis plants growing inside a house in High Beech.

Nicolas Vizzini, 31, tried to escape out of the back door of a property in Mott Street after police executed a warrant in July last year.

He was arrested before he could flee.

Cannabis plants in various stages of growth were found in the living areas and three bedrooms.

The majority of the plants were in the basement, where officers found 405 plants in seedling and early stages of growth.

Vizzini admitted producing cannabis when he appeared at Southend Magistrates’ Court on 13 August.

He was sentenced to a year and four months at Chelmsford Crown Court on Wednesday, 14 April.

PC Charlotte O’Brien said: “The court heard Vizzini was brought by other people to the house to take care of the plants.

“Sadly, this is the reality behind the drugs trade. Criminals exploit people, especially those who are vulnerable, and employ them to grow or sell drugs on their behalf.

“The production and supply of drugs is also connected to a world of violence and intimidation.

“Cannabis cultivation is not a victimless crime and it’s why Essex Police is working every single day to target criminals involved in drugs supply and working to protect those they abuse and exploit.

“If you have information about drug dealing in your community, or are worried someone you know is being exploited, tell us so we can take appropriate action.”

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