Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office K9s Receive Donated Protective Vests
September 15, 2025 | Charlotte County, FL — Four members of the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office K9 Unit are now better protected thanks to a generous donation from the non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.
K9s Leroy, Raider, Rico, and Toro each received bullet- and stab-resistant vests custom-fitted to ensure both safety and comfort. Each vest also carries a special embroidered tribute honoring fallen officers:
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K9 Leroy: “In memory of Sgt. Elio Diaz – EOW 12/15/24”
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K9 Raider: “In memory of K9 Scar – EOW 10/1/24”
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K9 Rico: “In memory of K9 Major – EOW 10/18/88”
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K9 Toro: “In memory of DFC Chris Taylor – EOW 11/22/22”
Founded in 2009, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to protecting law enforcement dogs nationwide. To date, the group has donated more than 6,225 vests across all 50 states — a contribution valued at $6.9 million. Each vest is made in the U.S., NIJ-certified, and carries a five-year warranty.
Sheriff Bill Prummell praised the partnership, saying:
“As always, I want to thank our partners at Vested Interest in K9s for their continued support. They are a true community partner who understands the value of safety, especially for our four-legged deputies. We appreciate all that Vested Interest has done for us and we know that we can turn to them again in the future whenever new K9s join the CCSO family.”
Vested Interest in K9s provides vests to eligible working dogs across the country, including those with expired protective gear. With an estimated 30,000 K9 officers serving in the U.S., the organization continues to rely on donations to meet demand.
Tax-deductible contributions of any size are accepted, though a $1,050 donation sponsors one vest. For more information or to support the program, visit www.vik9s.org or mail contributions to Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.