A FATHER grew nearly £9,000 worth of cannabis in the same home as his infant daughter.

Reece Brazier has been spared jail after a police raid found cannabis plants in a hidden area near a workshop in his home.

The 32-year-old was discovered at his home in the North Benfleet area, near Basildon, on August 19 last year with his partner and infant child.

Police discovered the 24 cannabis plants hidden away with drug production equipment such as fans, lighting and scales.

The 24-plant cultivation which was seized by police was found to be worth an estimated £4,328 in street value.

A black box was found which contained two other bags of cannabis weighing 740 grams, estimated to be worth a total of £4,680.

In total, Brazier produced £9,008 worth of cannabis in his home.

He later went on to admit producing a Class B drug and was sentenced at Basildon Crown Court yesterday.

Prosecuting, Richard Scott said: “Brazier was interviewed and said he was growing cannabis to extract CBD oil to treat his anxiety.

“The drugs expert pointed out that none of the equipment for the extraction of cannabis oil was found during the search.”

Mitigation said that Brazier has been suffering from the effects of depression and anxiety but now wants to change and care for his new child, who is still less than 18 months old.

Sentencing, Judge Andrew Hurst told Brazier: “Police went to your home and found a cannabis operation.

“There was also a black tub with two bags of harvested cannabis, worth approximately £9,000. That’s a significant amount.

“I have read the letter from Basildon Hospital about the emotionally unstable personality disorder and issues with anxiety and depression.

“It’s quite clear you have needs to to be addressed and you have a child under 18 months old.

“I’m told you’re motivated by the birth of your child and you want to get a good income.”

Brazier was given an eight month suspended sentence and 120 hours of unpaid work.

He must also complete 30 rehabilitation days.