FORT WAYNE – 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 provide K9 Knox with a custom-fitted bullet and stab protective vest, which the organization sponsors. The vest will be embroidered with the message, “This gift of protection provided by Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.,” and is expected to be delivered within ten weeks.
Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., established in 2009, is a 501(c)(3) charity dedicated to providing bullet and stab protective vests, along with other assistance, to law enforcement K9s and working dogs across the United States. The vests are U.S.-made, custom-fitted, and National Institute of Justice (NIJ) certified, offering critical protection to K9 officers who serve in dangerous environments.
Since its founding, Vested Interest in K9s has provided over 5,882 protective vests to law enforcement K9s in all 50 states, valued at $6.9 million, through the support of private and corporate donations. The program is available to U.S. K9s actively employed and certified by law enforcement or related agencies. K9s with expired vests are also eligible to receive new protective gear.
The value of each vest is approximately $1,800, and it weighs an average of 4-5 pounds. Each vest comes with a five-year warranty. Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. accepts tax-deductible donations of any amount, with a contribution of $1,050, sponsoring one vest. For more information or to donate, individuals can visit the organization’s website at www.vik9s.org or at 508-824-6978.
K9 Knox, who works alongside his handler Trooper Adam Carroll, serves with the Indiana State Police at the Fort Wayne District. Donating this protective vest is crucial in ensuring the safety of K9 Knox, who is essential in supporting law enforcement efforts.
The Indiana State Police extend their gratitude to Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. for their ongoing support of law enforcement K9s and their dedication to the safety of these four-legged officers.
For more information, please get in touch with Sergeant Wes Rowlader at 317-617-7995 or visit the Indiana State Police Fort Wayne District’s social media pages on Facebook and Twitter.
