Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office, NC – K9s Black, Jax, Pepper, and Ronin will receive bullet and stab protective vests thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. All the vests were sponsored by Sherri Widlund of Colorado Springs, CO and will be embroidered with the sentiment “In honor of Aunt Marge Wright”. Delivery is expected within ten weeks.
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 6,348 vests valued at $6.9 million to K9s in all 50 states, made possible by both private and corporate donations.
Brunswick County Sheriff Brian Chism said, “The Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office is sincerely grateful to Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. and to sponsor Sherri Widlund for this generous donation. This protective equipment provides critical safety for our K9s, who faithfully serve and protect our community each day.”
The program is open to U.S. dogs at least 20 months old, 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.
Meet Our K9s Receiving Protective Vests:
K9 Black – A German Shepherd/Belgian Malinois mix partnered with Deputy Quisto Moore, Black is certified in explosive detection and trailing. Originally from Budapest, Hungary, Black is known for his strong work ethic, playful personality, and love of giving hugs. Fun fact: Black is the brother of fellow BCSO K9 Ronin. K9 Ronin – Partnered with Deputy Michael Camastro, Ronin is a multipurpose K9 certified in trailing and narcotics detection. Also from Budapest, Hungary, Ronin brings unmatched energy, focus, and drive to the job, while enjoying beach time and play off duty. K9 Pepper – A certified tracking and trailing bloodhound partnered with Master Deputy Robin Forbes, Pepper joined the unit in August 2025 and has completed extensive training across multiple states. Known for her determination, love of swimming, and legendary nap skills, Pepper is a vital part of our K9 team.
