(North Charleston)—Charleston County Aviation Authority Police Department K9s Echo, Kane, and Taz have received bullet and stab protective vests thanks to a charitable donation from the non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. Each vest has a value of $1800.00, weighs an average of 4-5 lb., and comes with a five-year warranty.
"Protecting those who protect us is a noble cause. With this grant, we ensure our K9 officers have the armor they need to serve and safeguard our travelers, the airport workforce, and the community, said Elliott Summey, Executive Director and CEO of Charleston International Airport."
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. 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.
Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided over 5,514 vests to K9s in all 50 states at $6.9 million, made possible by private and corporate donations. All vests are sponsored by Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. K9 Echo's vest will be embroidered with the sentiment "In memory of Bill Butler." K9 Kane's vest will be embroidered with the sentiment "Gifted by Penny Butler." K9 Taz's vest will be embroidered with the sentiment "In memory of John W. Butler."