Leeds cannabis farmer told police he had been smoking the drug since he was six years old

Darren Benton was arrested at his home in Meanwood when police went to the property to speak to him about a matter unrelated to drugs.

The 35-year-old told the officers he had a "small farm" in the upstairs rooms of the house.

Officers discovered 32 plants growing in different rooms.

The rooms were fitted with extractor fans and sophisticated growing equipment.

The plants were analysed by an expert who estimated that they were capable of producing 1.76kg of the class B drug, with a street value of £15,000.

Benton was interviewed about the offence and told officers he had been a user of the drug since he was six years old.

Benton said he never intended to sell the drug on the streets himself.

Benton, now of Leafield Drive, Moortown, pleaded guilty to producing cannabis.

Susannah Proctor, mitigating, said Benton pleaded guilty to the offence at an early stage.

Miss Proctor said Benton had had a difficult upbringing and had struggled with mental issues.

The lawyer said Benton had been out of trouble since 2013 and was now in a stable relationship,

Benton was given a six-month prison sentence, suspended for 12 months.

He was ordered to complete ten rehabilitation activity requirement days.

Judge Neil Clark said: "You said you have been a user of cannabis for six years, which is rather tragic."

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