A Bromley landlady faced terrifying threats, including having her face cut off after police discovered a cannabis factory set up in her home.
The ordeal unfolded when police responded to reports of a male tenant threatening a woman on Capstone Road, Bromley, late at night on August 11, 2022.
Upon arrival, officers found the woman visibly distressed but initially claimed the man had left. However, further investigation revealed otherwise, as noises were heard coming from an upstairs room.
Inside, police discovered 52-year-old George Joseph Williams-Thomas surrounded by 29 cannabis plants. The setup was described as sophisticated, equipped with lights, hydroponics, and extraction fans.
Williams-Thomas initially claimed innocence, stating he had been paid £50 to water the plants by an individual he met at a pub. However, the court later heard that he had 21 previous convictions for 68 offences.
Despite his claims, Williams-Thomas pleaded guilty to being concerned about the production of cannabis. At Woolwich Crown Court on Thursday, February 15, he received a suspended prison sentence.
Judge David Miller expressed concern for the landlady, emphasizing that she appeared frightened and was unwillingly involved in the situation.
Williams-Thomas’s barrister highlighted financial strains as a contributing factor to his actions, noting that he dedicates significant time to caring for his young son.
In sentencing, Judge Miller imposed a 17-month custodial sentence, suspended for 18 months, along with 100 hours of unpaid work and a nightly curfew.
While acknowledging Williams-Thomas’s circumstances, Judge Miller emphasized that his decision to spare immediate imprisonment was solely due to considerations for his son, stating, “It is only for that reason, you otherwise richly deserve to go to prison.
The case highlights the complex dynamics and risks associated with illegal cannabis cultivation, underscoring the impact on both individuals and communities.
