Whitehaven: Man admits cannabis farm at former phone shop

Defrim Xherri, 34, of no fixed address appeared remotely at Carlisle Crown Court on Monday

A man has admitted growing a cannabis farm after hundreds of plants were found at a former phone shop.

Police said plants with a street value of almost £700,000 were seized from a property in central Whitehaven.

At Carlisle Crown Court, Defrim Xherri, 34, of no fixed address, pleaded guilty to producing the Class B drug and remains in police custody.

The judge noted Xherri appeared to be in the UK illegally, adding that he was planning to seek asylum.

Appearing via video link on Monday morning, Xherri spoke to confirm his name, date of birth and that he could hear proceedings clearly.

During a short hearing in front of Judge Michael Fanning, Xherri pleaded guilty to one charge of producing cannabis between 1 July and 20 September.

'Absconded'

Xherri was charged after police discovered the cannabis farm at a property in King Street on 19 September. Some 400 plants were found and seized by officers.

The prosecution said the haul had a potential yield of about 68kg. This was said to have an estimated street value of £680,000 with the wholesale value put at between £217,000 and £340,000.

Xherri's lawyer, Jack Troup, said the defendant had an explanation for his admission of guilt, which would be considered by the police and prosecution.

The case was adjourned by Judge Fanning, who said he would receive a sentencing discount in recognition of his guilty plea.

Judge Fanning also noted Xherri appeared to have been in the UK illegally, and that he had previously absconded and was planning to seek asylum.

Xherri is due to appear at Carlisle Crown Court on 4 December.