A JUDGE refused to sentence a man who admitted minding a cannabis factory, due to limited information the Crown Prosecution Service had about the offence.

Suu Vo, 37, a Vietnamese illegal immigrant of no fixed abode, admitted cultivating cannabis at a converted home, in Gainsborough Avenue, Tilbury, when he appeared at Basildon Crown Court.

Representing Vo, Martin McDonnell, said the crook, who is remanded in Belmarsh Prison, wanted to be sentenced immediately so he could serve his time and return to his native country.

He said: “He accepts he has broken the law, but was very low down the chain and simply a gardener or minder.”

However, Judge Christopher Mitchell said sentencing would not be possible and adjourned the case until January 20.

Glen Coker, prosecuting, admitted he had no details about the value of the cannabis involved, despite Vo being charged last October.

Judge Mitchell said: “I would like to be able to deal with the case, but cannot until the court knows more.”

He apologised for not being able to sentence Vo.

A joint police and CPS statement said: “In this case, the CPS had no prior knowledge a guilty plea would be entered.

“The immigration status was the only factor that delayed sentencing. Had the status been known it could have proceeded.”