Indiana State Police K9 Knox is set to receive a potentially lifesaving donation of body armor, thanks to the charitable efforts of Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. The non-profit organization will outfit K9 Knox with a custom-fitted bullet- and stab-protective vest, which it sponsors. The vest will be embroidered with the words, “This gift of protection provided by Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.,” and is expected to arrive within ten weeks.
Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., founded in 2009, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to providing bullet- and stab-protective vests, as well as other services, to law enforcement K9s and working canines around the United States. The vests are created in the United States, custom-fitted, and certified by the National Institute of Justice (NIJ), providing crucial protection to K9 police working in risky areas.
Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s has donated over 5,882 protective vests to law enforcement K9s in all 50 states, totaling $6.9 million in private and corporate donations. U.S. K9s currently employed and certified by law enforcement or associated agencies are eligible for the program. K9s with expired vests are also eligible for new safety equipment.
Each vest costs around $1,800 and weighs between 4and5 pounds. Each vest comes with a five-year warranty. Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. welcomes tax-deductible gifts of any size, with a $1,050 investment sponsoring one vest. Individuals can learn more or donate by visiting the organization’s website at www.vik9s.org or calling 508-824-6978.
Trooper Adam Carroll, K9 Knox’s handler, assigns him to the Indiana State Police Fort Wayne District. Donating this protective vest is critical to safeguarding the safety of K9 Knox, who plays an important role in law enforcement efforts.
The Indiana State Police thank Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. for their continued support of law enforcement K9s and commitment to the protection of these four-legged policemen.
For more information, please contact Sergeant Wes Rowlader at 317-617-7995 or follow the Indiana State Police Fort Wayne District on Facebook and Twitter.