2 Days Before Retirement, K-9 Makes Big Drug Bust

MURFREESBORO, TN — It's a common trope in cop movies: The world-weary detective, days before retirement, gets one final case to solve and it's a big one.

A retiring deputy in Rutherford County brought the story to life this week with a furry twist.

Long-time K-9 deputy Balu retired Friday, but Wednesday Balu made one last bust.

Deputy Josh Gregory stopped a semi-truck for multiple traffic violations on Interstate 24 between the New Salem Highway and South Church Street exits, the sheriff's department said. With Balu alongside, Gregory began a search of the tractor-trailer.

“During the traffic stop, Deputy Gregory used his K-9 partner, Balu, to scan the outside of the semi-truck,” RCSO Sgt. Will Holton said. “With the help of Balu, who will be officially retired Friday, Deputy Gregory and Sgt. Lee Young located a hidden compartment, which contained 14 kilos of suspected cocaine. The suspected cocaine has a street value of over $1 million.”

The driver, Canadian Ruben Alejandro Peters, 22, is charged with felony manufacture/sale/delivery of a controlled substance.

A 16-year-old girl from Mexico was traveling with Peters. She was released to the custody of the Department of Children's Services. Her relationship with Peters is unknown.

Photos via Rutherford County Sheriff's Office