New Lenox, IL – A New Lenox police dog will soon be outfitted with lifesaving protective gear, thanks to a charitable donation from a national nonprofit.
According to the New Lenox Police Department, K9 Harlie will receive a bullet and stab protective vest provided by Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. The vest will be embroidered with the phrase “Born to Love–Trained to Serve–Loyal Always” and is expected to be delivered within 10 weeks.
Vested Interest in K9s, established in 2009, is a 501(c)(3) charity that supplies body armor and other safety equipment for law enforcement dogs across the country. The organization has distributed more than 6,225 vests, valued at nearly $6.9 million, to K9s in all 50 states through both corporate and private donations.
The vests are custom fitted, U.S. made, and certified by the National Institute of Justice. Each vest is valued at about $1,800, weighs around 4 to 5 pounds, and comes with a five-year warranty. Dogs who are at least 20 months old, actively employed, and certified in law enforcement or related fields are eligible for the program.
Vested Interest in K9s notes that there are roughly 30,000 law enforcement K9s currently serving throughout the United States. The group also provides vests to dogs whose existing equipment has expired.
Donations to sponsor a vest start at $1,050, though the organization accepts contributions in any amount. More information is available at www.vik9s.org or by calling (508) 824-6978.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant new stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
