Phillips Won’t Get Jail Time

Former Angel Tony Phillips pleaded guilty Monday to one count of felony cocaine possession, but his criminal record could be wiped clean if he successfully completes a drug program for first-time offenders.

Dressed in a pale green shirt, blue jeans and sneakers, Phillips stood before the court with his hands clasped behind his back, and answered a judge’s questions in a reserved tone.

North Municipal Court Judge Michael Hayes warned Phillips that for the duration of the 18-month program he must submit to a police search at any time, must complete an anti-drug educational program and stay drug-free--or else face a prison sentence.

Phillips, 38, who declined to be interviewed Monday, was arrested in room 52 of the Ivanhoe Hotel in Anaheim on Aug. 10 with a loaded pipe in one hand and a lighter in the other, police said.

Investigators said they were tipped off by a police informant who sold the ballplayer three $10 rocks of smokable cocaine. Another man, Daryl Smith, 40, was arrested on suspicion of supplying the drugs to the informant and is awaiting trial.

Phillips’ attorney, Allan Stokke, said before the court hearing that Phillips entered a guilty plea only for the purpose of enrolling in the drug program and in hopes of striking the arrest from his record. Stokke said the plea does not mean his client is guilty or has been convicted of any wrongdoing.

“At the present time, the court makes no finding of guilt,” Stokke said.

Angels officials declined to comment Monday on Phillips’ decision to plead guilty.

The Angels will not offer a new contract to Phillips, who finished the season batting .275.

Phillips must enroll in a so-called drug diversion program within the next two weeks and is scheduled to return to court May 4 with proof that he completed a 32-hour anti-drug educational program.