An annual garden tour in Revelstoke, B.C., led to police using a search warrant at a home for cannabis plants—a move that has since garnered criticism.
On July 28, the Revelstoke Local Food Initiative, a non-profit that encourages local food production, hosted its 7th annual Garden and Art Tour.
In this self-guided, all-ages tour, the public can visit gardens and view art at various participating residences.
Revelstoke RCMP announced on August 6 that an off-duty RCMP officer took part in the tour.
During the tour, the officer noticed non-medicinal cannabis plants being grown in view of the public that he considered violations of the Cannabis Control and Licensing Act.
Officers used a search warrant at the residence on August 2 to seize the plants and other related items to support charges.
The police actions drew condemnation on social media, including from Vancouver cannabis activist Dana Larsen.
No other province has a law saying your 4 legal cannabis plants must be hidden from public view.
This rule about hiding your plants is only here in BC.
The BC NDP need to fix their Cannabis Control & Licensing Act. It’s full of unnecessary punishments and restrictions.— Dana Larsen (@DanaLarsen) August 7, 2019
The Revelstoke Review reported that the homeowner, Anne Minten, had initially stated that she felt “violated” and hurt after she discovered her three cannabis plants were taken. She has since called for compassion and understanding for all involved parties, though she is also hoping for an apology from the RCMP.
The Revelstoke Mountaineer reported that RCMP were preparing a statement to be released on August 8 but none appear on their website.
The Georgia Straight has contacted B.C. RCMP for any additional information or updates.
