Over seven kilogrammes of cannabis found in Vestfold home – two brothers sentenced to prison
Two brothers have been sentenced to one year and six months in prison after police found over seven kilogrammes of cannabis in a detached house in Vestfold. The younger brother is appealing the judgment.
Two brothers convicted of cannabis cultivation in Vestfold home
Two brothers have been sentenced to one year and six months in prison for the production and possession of narcotics, according to NRK Norge. Police found over seven kilogrammes of cannabis when they conducted a raid on a detached house in Vestfold in May 2024.
In the home, seized items included cannabis, material from cannabis plants and cocaine, in addition to a large quantity of equipment for plant production. The findings were made in several locations on the property, including the cellar and garage.
It was also discovered that someone had tampered with the fuse box so that power consumption was not recorded on the meter. The sums involved have not been disclosed. The younger brother was acquitted of theft of electricity.
Eldest brother admits partially
The eldest brother has partially admitted to all charges. In court, he explained that his father – who is now deceased – originally carried out the cannabis cultivation, and that he himself continued this work after his father's death.
He admits only partial criminal liability because the profits also benefited his father, according to his own account.
Youngest brother denies and appeals
The youngest brother denies having been involved in any of the offences. He claimed in court that he only visited his brother to watch films or work on cars.
The majority of the court found his account of little credibility. DNA findings linked to him on plastic around the cannabis were viewed by the court as central evidence. The defendant claimed that recycled household plastic from the kitchen may have been used to wrap the cannabis – an explanation the court did not find tenable.
Police also found messages about narcotics sales on his mobile phone, which in the court's view strengthened suspicion of involvement.
Defence counsel Tore Moen informed NRK that the judgment will be appealed.
– He disagrees with the court's assessment of the evidence, said Moen. – He has explained that he has nothing to do with the production and possession. He did not live in the house, and does not consider himself guilty under the charges.
Defence counsel Ole Lien, who represents the eldest brother, said they will review the judgment and will consider whether it should be appealed.
Prosecution is satisfied
Police prosecutor Christian Asdahl believes the judgment is correct.
– This is a judgment that in large part is what we argued for, said Asdahl.
He emphasised that the appeal deadline has been set for 3 November, and that the judgment is therefore not yet final.
Source: NRK Norge