By Craig Anderson

MILLSBORO - Joe L. Smith, 23, of Delmar, was as arrested for alleged gun and drug offenses following a traffic stop Wednesday, authorities said.

Delaware State Police spokesman Senior Cpl. Leonardo DeMalto said that at approximately 12:17 p.m., troopers observed the driver of a Chevrolet Malibu fail to properly signal when turning onto Main Street. A traffic stop on nearby Gravel Hill Road ensued, police said.

When the car stopped, police said troopers saw the front passenger Mr. Smith reaching in front of him and towards his side. Mr. Smith then opened the door and tried to exit the car, but troopers were able to take him into custody without incident, police said.

Computer checks showed Mr. Smith had six active warrants for his arrest, including three felony warrants issued by the Laurel Police Department. Troopers searched Smith and found approximately 26 glassine baggies containing suspected heroin and over $9,200 in suspected drug dealing proceeds, police said.

Troopers found a backpack on the front passenger floorboard. A search of the backpack led to the discovery of a suppressed handgun, ammunition, an extended magazine, and drug paraphernalia, police said. Troopers also located approximately 21.34 grams of marijuana stored in the passenger door pocket, police said.

The driver, a 22-year-old Frankford woman, was issued a ticket and released.

Mr. Smith was charged with possession offenses including firearm during the commission of a felony, firearm by a person prohibited, with intent to deliver a controlled substance (three counts) and drug paraphernalia, and carrying a concealed deadly weapon.

Mr. Smith was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 3 and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on $100,400 cash bond.