Mike Nolet thought he was moving to the better end of town, but instead watched a drug bust across the street Wednesday afternoon.

“This is a newer subdivision with nicer houses and, for this to happen, it’s a shock,” said Nolet.

He and girlfriend Kerri McConnell just moved to Versailles Crescent a week ago and were outside in time to see Barrie Police chase down a suspect believed to be involved in a marijuana grow-op.

“I saw the cops hiding at the corner of the garage and then they started yelling ‘search warrant’ and ran up the steps. They busted the door and 20 seconds later I saw a guy run from the back of the house.”

Police ran after him, and caught him. He was taken back to the cruiser shoeless, with the cuffs behind his back, and his white T-shirt was dirty, said Nolet.

What’s ironic is that the couple just moved from the Georgian College area to get away from the noise and crime, only to find it front and centre in their new neighbourhood.

Four people were arrested in the bust, which included a grow-op found at 5 Prince William Way.

There, 170 plants were seized, along with two vehicles and drug paraphernalia. Three people were arrested at the home and all were charged with possession for the purpose of trafficking.

The plants were found in the basements and both homes had bypassed the hydro systems, said Const. John Parliament.

A construction worker with Fandor Homes said the owners of the home moved to Versailles Crescent three months ago, and he barely saw them.

Police couldn’t confirm if people lived in the homes, but said they were furnished.