The Sarasota County Sheriff's Office will be outfitting all eight K-9s with stab-proof and bullet-proof vests thanks to generous donations from the community.

The Sarasota Sportsmens Association presented a significant check to Sheriff Tom Knight and K-9 Dep. Brian Biegel during their fall banquet last night. Other major donors were Glueck’s Auto Parts and Dr. Anne Chauvet of Critical Care Veterinary Specialists.

The K-9 Unit would also like to thank the Retired Law Enforcement Association of Southwest Florida, Amy’s Pet Pantry, Gecko’s, Dr. Donald Lackey and Today’s Cut Barber Shop for helping with this effort.

The K-9 vests are manufactured by Point Blank Body Armor and are stab and bullet proof. Each vest is specifically made for the individual dog’s size and weight. The vests are utilized during high risk incidents since K-9 deputies respond to all critical incidents and are often the first to make contact with suspects who are armed and dangerous.