Troopers: Albany traffic stop leads to cocaine in fanny pack

ALBANY – An early Wednesday traffic stop uncovered cocaine in a fanny pack around the driver’s waist, state police said Thursday.

Thomas J. Sheffel, 28, of Albany, was arrested after the 1:08 a.m. stop and charged with fifth-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, a felony, and seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, a misdemeanor.

State police stopped Sheffel early Wednesday for speeding on Western Avenue in Albany, troopers said.

When the trooper approached the vehicle the odor of marijuana was detected coming from inside the car, state police said. The trooper also spotted paraphernalia consistent with the use of concentrated cannabis, state police said.

A search of Sheffel and the vehicle revealed a quantity of marijuana and concentrated cannabis. Troopers also found two small baggies of cocaine in the fanny pack, state police said.

Sheffel was processed and issued an appearance ticket to appear in court later.