A longtime marijuana user who wanted to supply himself and friends with homegrown was placed under house arrest for a year in Sarnia court earlier this week.

William Metcalfe, 52, of Warwick, pleaded guilty to possession of marijuana for the purpose of trafficking. Police searched his home and two sheds on Nov. 10, 2006 and found more than 50 plants, some six feet tall, and six kilograms of dried marijuana.

Through his lawyer, Metcalfe said much of the dried product was stems and waste material.

Justice Deborah Austin said she accepted information provided that it was not a commercial operation but was for use by Metcalfe and some friends.

The court was told Metcalfe has used marijuana since his youth.

Austin said she was concerned it has been part of his life for so long and ordered counseling as part of his house arrest.

Sharing marijuana is trafficking and he took the risk of running an illegal operation, she said.

Metcalfe's wife told him to get rid of the marijuana prior to the police search, the court heard. Charges against her were withdrawn Monday and the couple has since separated.

During house arrest, Metcalfe can leave for work, medical appointments and once weekly for four hours of grocery shopping.