Traffic stop in Campbell nets suspected crack cocaine

Staff report

CAMPBELL

Police here arrested a Youngstown man early Sunday on drug charges after they found 15.2 grams of suspected crack cocaine in his sock during a traffic stop.

About 3 a.m., police noticed a car driving on McCartney Road with objects hanging from the rear-view mirror and blocking the driver’s view to the front.

Police then pulled behind the car, and the driver — identified Darrell K. Phifer, 28, of Plazaview Court — immediately signaled a left turn onto Keystone Street, swerved left and right, and crossed the center line.

When police finally stopped the car on Keystone, they noticed Phifer furtively reaching down toward the floor and glancing at the cruiser through the side-view mirror.

Police searched the car and Phifer after explaining the reason for the stop. Soon afterward, they found the large quantity of suspected crack cocaine.

Phifer is charged with possession of drugs, a third-degree felony, and possession of drug paraphernalia, and also cited for the traffic offenses.

He will appear in Campbell Municipal Court at 9 a.m. today.