Man, 25, jailed for drug offence following cannabis factory discovery in Eastleigh

A 25-year-old man from Eastleigh has been jailed for 16 months after pleading guilty to being concerned in the production of a controlled drug of Class B – cannabis.

Sebastian Lasku, of Nightingale Avenue, was sentenced when he appeared at Southampton Magistrates’ Court on Friday 9 January.

It follows the discovery of a cannabis factory during a s.23 Misuse of Drugs Act warrant at a property on Nightingale Avenue on Thursday 13 November.

After officers had forced entry to the address, Lasku tried to evade capture, running away and climbing over a garden fence. Officers quickly caught up with him.

Following a subsequent search of the property, approximately 80 cannabis plants were located, as well as 27 1kg bags of prepared cannabis. The bags were ready to sell and had a high market value.

Detective Constable David Trathan, of the Eastleigh and Hedge End Criminal Investigation Department, said: “I’m pleased that we have once again managed to prevent further harm to our communities from the criminality that surrounds this type of drug-related incident.

“This case should once again demonstrate our commitment to relentlessly pursuing those who wish to carry out crime in our area.

“Significant resources were used to carry out this warrant and the subsequent investigation, something we will do again, as the supply of drugs will not be tolerated in our district.

“Lasku has been held accountable for his actions and placed behind bars, making our communities that much safer as a result, not least because cannabis factories can pose significant risks, including fire due to the way electricity is used.”

On how the community can help police to achieve similar outcomes at court, DC Trathan, said: “This case is a good reminder that if you see anything suspicious relating to buildings in our district, whether inhabited or vacant, residential or business, please report it to us at the earliest opportunity.

“We encourage anyone who suspects drug-related activity is taking place in their neighbourhood to get in touch with us. Every piece of information helps us to build a stronger intelligence picture and allows us to take action.

“Ultimately here, we’ve stopped the distribution of these drugs, and will continue to do so, ensuring our district is a hostile environment for drug dealers to operate in.”

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A video showing the moment officers forced entry to the address, as well as the subsequent arrest of Lasku, can be viewed here - Eastleigh Warrant & Arrest