Gerard Baughen: Ormeau metal worker busted with home grown cannabis stash

A Gold Coast metal worker who got busted with cannabis plants growing in his bedroom and cupboards caught the attention of cops when they caught a whiff of a strong odour coming from his front door.

A Gold Coast metal worker who got busted with cannabis plants growing in his bedroom and cupboards caught the attention of cops when they caught a whiff of a strong odour coming from his front door.

Gerard Baughen leaving Beenleigh courthouse.

Gerard Baughen, 41, of Ormeau, pleaded guilty in Beenleigh Magistrates Court on Friday to producing dangerous drugs, possessing dangerous drugs, possessing anything used in the commission of a crime and possessing utensils or pipes that had been used.

Police located 38 cannabis plants in total in Baughen’s home when they executed a search warrant there about 1.45pm on October 5.

The court heard police could smell the strong odour of cannabis at the entry of the dwelling.

During the search they found a locked room containing a grow tent, complete with ventilation, hydroponic lights, irrigation and pots of soil with seven mature cannabis plants.

They also found cupboards that had been converted into cannabis growing locations with 16 plants, all of which were at various stages of development.

They also located about 19 grams of dried cannabis and a silver smoking pipe in the house.

Baughen’s lawyer told the court that while he had a “relatedly sophisticated operation” the cannabis was for personal use.

He said Baughen did not have a criminal history and was self-employed as a metal worker.

He was fined $1800 and no conviction was recorded.