Alton Police K9 Rico Receives Protective Vest Donation

ALTON - Alton Police Department K9 Rico has received a bullet- and stab-protective vest through a charitable donation from Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., the department announced on Wednesday, March 18, 2026.

“The support we've received from Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. is truly outstanding, and we cannot thank them enough,” Alton Police Department Chief Jarrett Ford said. “Our K9 officers face the same dangers as our human officers, and this vest ensures that K9 Rico has the protection he deserves while serving our community.”

Rico’s vest was embroidered with the sentiment “In memory of Odin - EOW 8/22/24.”

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 organization says the body armor is U.S.-made, custom-fitted, and National Institute of Justice certified.

Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided more than 6,348 vests valued at $6.9 million to K9s in all 50 states, made possible by private and corporate donations.

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“We encourage our community members to consider supporting their mission so that more K9s nationwide can receive this lifesaving equipment,” Ford said.

The program is open to U.S. dogs at least 20 months old that are actively employed and certified with law enforcement or related agencies, according to the organization. K9s with expired vests are also eligible. The organization estimates there are 30,000 law enforcement K9s throughout the United States.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. accepts tax-deductible contributions in any amount, and says a single donation of $1,050 will sponsor one vest.

Each vest has a value of $1,800, weighs an average of 4 to 5 pounds, and comes with a five-year warranty.

For more information or to learn about volunteer opportunities, call (508) 824-6978. The organization provides information, lists events, and accepts donations at www.vik9s.org. Contributions also may be mailed to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.

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