NEW HAVEN– Indiana State Police K9 Bandit is now better protected in the line of duty thanks to the generosity of Kurt and Sherry Riecken of New Haven, IN, and the non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. K9 Bandit has been outfitted with a bullet and stab protective vest, a potentially life-saving piece of equipment made possible through a charitable donation.
The vest, sponsored by the Rieckens, is embroidered with the heartfelt sentiment: “Born to Love-Trained to Serve-Loyal Always.” This message underscores the dedication and bravery of K9 officers like Bandit who serve their communities.
Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., established in 2009, operates as a 501(c)(3) charity with a mission to provide essential bullet and stab protective vests and other forms of assistance to law enforcement and related agency dogs across the United States. The organization’s body armor is U.S.-made, custom-fitted to each K9, and certified by the National Institute of Justice (NIJ), ensuring the highest standards of protection.
Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has significantly impacted the safety of K9 officers nationwide, having provided over 6,074 vests valued at $6.9 million to K9s in all 50 states. These vital contributions are made possible through the support of private individuals and corporate donors who recognize these animals’ crucial role in law enforcement.
The program is available to U.S. law enforcement or related agency dogs at least 20 months old, actively employed, and certified. Even K9s with expired vests are eligible for a new protection layer. With an estimated 30,000 law enforcement K9s serving throughout the United States, the need for such protective gear is significant.
Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. welcomes tax-deductible contributions of any amount. A donation of $1,050 is enough to sponsor a complete vest, which is approximately $1,800 and typically weighs between 4-5 lbs. Each vest also has a five-year warranty, ensuring long-lasting protection for these dedicated animals.
If you are interested in learning more about Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., exploring volunteer opportunities, or making a donation, please call (508) 824-6978 or visit their website at www.vik9s.org. Contributions can also be mailed to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.
The gift of this protective vest to K9 Bandit serves as a testament to the community’s support for law enforcement and the invaluable contributions of their four-legged partners. It provides an added layer of safety for Bandit as he continues to serve and protect the residents of Indiana.
