South Australia is taking a new step in its battle against illegal cannabis cultivation. This week, state legislation was passed that allows SA Police to immediately destroy hydroponic equipment, such as sodium and mercury vapour lights and reflectors, once they are confiscated during drug busts. The change is designed to alleviate logistical burdens and cut related costs.
Attorney-General Kyam Maher, highlighted the cumbersome nature of the previous system. The protocol required the SA Police to transport and store large quantities of hydroponic equipment until the conclusion of court proceedings. However, these items rarely contributed to evidence and mostly filled storage spaces unnecessarily.
“Under the previous laws, SAPOL were forced to seize, transport, and store hundreds of pallets of hydroponic equipment that is never called upon as evidence in court proceedings,” Maher explained.
With the new laws, this equipment can now be destroyed at the point of seizure. This is expected to save significant amounts of time, transport, and storage expenses. SA Police currently holds tens of thousands of items across hundreds of pallets, which can now be disposed of thanks to the legislative update.
In addition to time and space benefits, the updated legislation allows SA Police to apply for a court order to recover reasonable costs associated with the destruction process. This covers any necessary collecting, transporting, and dismantling of the equipment.
Maher expressed his satisfaction with the swift action taken by State Parliament in addressing this issue and is confident that these changes will enhance efficiency within the police force. “I’m pleased to see State Parliament act swiftly in debating this legislation, which will help free up police resources, so that police can be out on the beat protecting our community,” he stated.
The Attorney-General also noted that the legislative changes deliver a strong message against the illegal cultivation of cannabis. “These changes send a clear message that the illegal production of cannabis will not be tolerated, and people caught doing the wrong thing will have their gear seized and destroyed swiftly,” Maher added.
These adjustments to the law aim to support police operations by reducing the logistical burdens associated with storing large volumes of seldom-used equipment. This initiative is also expected to serve as a deterrent to those engaged in or considering the illegal production of cannabis.
The SA Government’s initiative marks an important step in streamlining police procedures and enforcing law and order concerning drug-related activities, particularly targeting the hydroponic cultivation of cannabis, which remains a significant challenge in the region.
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