Cops find pot in car after Monday traffic stop

YOUNGSTOWN — Reports said police found 14 bags of marijuana and crack cocaine about 5:25 p.m. Monday after pulling over an SUV for running a stop sign at Redondo Road and Catalina Avenue.

The driver, Marco D. Hammond Sr., 30, of Duncan Avenue, also has at least 19 current or former suspensions on his license, reports said.

Reports said the SUV smelled heavily of marijuana but when he was asked if there was any marijuana in the car, Hammond said: “No, there is no reason why you would be smelling weed.”

Hammond gave police permission to search him and his vehicle and officers found several ripped open bags on him and 14 bags of marijuana in a pocket in the driver’s side door. The cocaine was found in the center console and Hammond had $650 cash, reports said.

Hammond was arrested on charges of trafficking in marijuana, possession of cocaine and driving under suspension.