Retiring Smithfield police K-9 assists in detection and seizure of large amount of cocaine

SMITHFIELD, R.I. (WLNE) — Smithfield police and Drug Enforcement Administration-Worcester HIDTA investigated a traffic stop Thursday night that led to the seizure of 38.5 kilograms of cocaine.

According to the Smithfield Police Department, officers responded to the Esmond Street stop at approximately 6:15 p.m. and deployed K-9 Ajax.

Ajax alerted officers to the presence of narcotics inside of the stopped vehicle and a search revealed the quantity of cocaine.

Rafael Rivera, 33, of Providence was arrested and charged with possession of a schedule I/II drug with intent to deliver-third offense and possession of cocaine greater than one kilogram.

He was arraigned at the Smithfield Police Department and held without bail.

Rivera was transported to the ACI and appeared in Kent County Court Friday morning.

Ajax, a nine-year Smithfield police K-9, will retire from the department on June 30.