JASPER- ISP K9s Knox and Barker have received bullet and stab protective vests thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. sponsored both vests and have been embroidered with the sentiment “This gift of protection provided by Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.”.
Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., established in 2009, is a 501(c)(3) charity whose mission is to provide bullet and stab protective vests and other assistance to dogs of law enforcement and related agencies throughout the United States. This potentially lifesaving body armor for four-legged K9 officers is U.S. made, custom fitted, and NIJ-certified. Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided over 5,882 vests to K9s in all 50 states at a cost of $6.9 million, made possible by private and corporate donations.
The program is open to U.S. dogs at least 20 months old and actively employed and certified with law enforcement or related agencies. K9s with expired vests are also eligible to participate. There are an estimated 30,000 law enforcement K9s throughout the United States.
K9 Barker is handled by Trooper Jacob Lauer and is assigned to the Indiana State Police Jasper District.
