An Albanian man, Marenglen Toslluku, was apprehended for managing a cannabis farm in Gateshead shortly after his release from an immigration detention center. This incident raises questions about the challenges faced by individuals in similar situations and the implications of illegal immigration.
Key Takeaways
- Marenglen Toslluku, 35, was caught tending a cannabis farm in Gateshead.
- He entered the UK illegally years ago and was released from an immigration detention center without means or documents.
- Police discovered 170 cannabis plants at the property on Westbourne Avenue.
- Toslluku pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 32 weeks in jail.
Background of the Incident
Marenglen Toslluku entered the UK illegally several years ago, hidden in a lorry. After working various jobs, he found himself in an immigration detention center. Upon his release, the court heard that he had no means of support and lacked the necessary documentation to find legitimate work.
In a desperate move, he connected with fellow Albanians he met in the detention center, who directed him to a cannabis farm in Gateshead. This decision would lead to his arrest and subsequent legal troubles.
Police Investigation
On June 12, police responded to reports of a suspected cannabis farm at a property on Westbourne Avenue. Upon arrival, they spotted Toslluku leaving the premises. He attempted to flee but was apprehended after a brief chase. Officers discovered that he possessed keys to the front door, which led them to investigate further.
Inside the property, police uncovered a sophisticated cannabis operation spread across multiple rooms, containing 170 plants and evidence of a previous crop. Additionally, they found that the electricity supply had been illegally bypassed, indicating a well-established operation.
Legal Proceedings
Toslluku pleaded guilty to producing cannabis, claiming he had only been at the property for about 12 days before his arrest. He described his role as that of a "gardener," asserting that he did not set up the farm himself. During the sentencing, Judge Carolyn Scott highlighted the aggravating factor of the farm’s location in a residential area, which posed risks to local residents.
Sentencing and Defense
Judge Scott sentenced Toslluku to 32 weeks in prison. However, due to the time he had already served on remand, he was eligible for immediate release or release soon after. His defense attorney, Rachel Hedworth, emphasized that Toslluku was not lawfully in the UK and had previously worked in construction before his detention.
Hedworth also noted that Toslluku had come to the UK after developing a gambling addiction and accumulating debt in Albania. She mentioned that he found his time in custody challenging, particularly due to the language barrier, as he does not speak English. He expressed a desire to be deported back to Albania as soon as possible and showed remorse for his actions.
Conclusion
This case sheds light on the complexities surrounding illegal immigration and the difficult choices faced by individuals in precarious situations. Toslluku’s story serves as a reminder of the broader issues at play in the ongoing discussions about immigration policies and the support systems available for those in need.
Sources
- Albanian Daily News, Albanian Daily News.
- Albanian Daily News, Albanian Daily News.
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