Phillips Completes Drug Program

Former Angel Tony Phillips has submitted proof that he completed an anti-drug educational program, clearing the way for a judge to strike a felony drug violation from his record if the athlete stays drug-free for the next year, officials said.

Phillips, 39, was arrested last Aug. 10 at a hotel with a loaded crack pipe in one hand and a lighter in the other. Investigators said they were tipped off by an informant who sold Phillips three $10 “rocks” of cocaine. Phillips pleaded guilty in November “for the purpose of enrolling in the drug program,” his attorney, Allan Stokke, said at the time, insisting that the plea does not mean his client has been convicted of any wrongdoing.

Under the program, Phillips was ordered to complete a 32-hour educational course and test negative to a mandatory drug test. He completed those requirements, and submitted proof to Judge Michael Hayes in Orange County Municipal Court in Fullerton.

“If he doesn’t get picked up for a narcotics violation, then one year from today, the case will be dismissed,” Deputy Dist. Atty. Mike Flory said.

Phillips did not appear in court Monday.