Protective vests are being donated to the four-legged protectors of citizens and visitors in Hennepin County.
The eight vests, designed to counter gunfire and stabbing attempts, are being issued for dogs on the roster with the Sheriff's Office. The donation is from the nonprofit Vested Interest in K-9s of Massachusetts.
"Just like our sworn officers, members of the K-9 Unit put their lives on the line in the name of public safety," Sheriff Rich Stanek said in a statement. K-9s are trained in apprehension, narcotics detection and explosives detection.
The donation of the $950 vests will help replenish the Sheriff's Office's inventory as others expire in terms of their effectiveness.
Through private and corporate sponsorships, Vested Interest in K-9s has provided over 930 law enforcement dogs in 39 states with protective vests since 2009.
Paul Walsh • 612-673-4482
