Man spared fine over house blaze drug find

A Geraldton man whose house caught fire, leading police to discover cannabis at the premises, has been spared court fines because of his financial situation.

The blaze at the George Road home on June 3 caused an estimated $150,000 damage.

Kimmo Patrick Laine, 42, appeared before Geraldton Magistrate’s Court on Friday for sentencing for cultivating a prohibited plant. Police prosecutor Sergeant Carey Owen told the court police seized four plants, ranging from 50cm-60cm in size.

Magistrate Donna Webb said she was considering a fine or community-based order when Laine’s lawyer told the court her client’s financial position was “not very positive”.

“His house burnt down as part of the offence,” she said.

The magistrate imposed a community-based order with supervision and programs.