Last Updated on February 23, 2025 4:11 pm
Two area law enforcement K9s recently received gifts from two different organizations.
Johnson County TN K9 Jocko received a gift from Quilts for Cops, as he continues to heal and recuperate at home after being shot during an officer-involved shooting in January.
“Jocko is doing well and we appreciate all of the positive comments for Jocko! Jocko is a hero and a very special K-9 Officer, especially to his fellow deputies.”, the Johnson County Sheriff's said in a statement.
“We are also thankful for Jocko’s human and partner on the road, Corporal Bradley Sexton for taking such good care of Jocko and running him back and forth to the doctor so we can be sure he heals properly and he can get back to work soon doing what he loves. Thank you all so much for thinking of Jocko. We are glad he is healing and the road to recovery.”, the statement went on to say.
Meanwhile, Ashe County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO) K9 Keeko will receive a bullet and stab protective vest thanks to a charitable donation from the non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.
K9 Keeko’s vest was sponsored by Betsy and Steve Juhasz of Aiken, SC and will be embroidered with the sentiment “Born to Love-Trained to Serve-Loyal Always”. Delivery is expected within ten weeks, according ACSO.
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. This potentially lifesaving body armor for four-legged K9 officers is U.S. made, custom fitted, and National Institute of Justice (NIJ) certified. Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided over 5,882 vests valued at $6.9 million to K9s in all 50 states made possible by both private and corporate donations.
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.
Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. accepts tax-deductible contributions in any amount, while a single donation of $1,050 will sponsor one vest. Each vest has a value of $1800.00, weighs an average of 4-5 lbs., and comes with a five-year warranty. For more information, or to learn about volunteer opportunities, please call (508) 824-6978. Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. provides information, lists events, and accepts donations at www.vik9s.org, or you may mail your contribution to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.
Johnson County TN K9 Jocko
Ashe County Sheriff’s Office K9 Keeko
