An Angus cannabis grower who came clean with police pursuing a tip-off has avoided jail.
Paul Ferrie, of Rosemount Place, Montrose, was found with eight plants and growing kit at his home on March 4 after police received information about the plantation.
Ferrie’s solicitor told Forfar Sheriff Court his client had cooperated fully with police when they arrived at his door.
He said the 42-year-old’s principal difficulty was with alcohol, for which he was receiving assistance.
“It’s clear he was using the cannabis as a replacement,” added the lawyer.
Sheriff Gregor Murray imposed a one-year community payback order of 140 hours of unpaid work.
