Community funds purchase of Kevlar vest for police K-9

ARLINGTON — With their noses for illegal drugs, police K-9s are just as much at risk as human officers of taking fire in the line of duty.

ARLINGTON — With their noses for illegal drugs, police K-9s are just as much at risk as human officers of taking fire in the line of duty.

Arlington drug detection dog Oso recently received an extra layer of protection from criminals, thanks to the “Keeping K-9s in Kevlar” program.

Because of contributions from the community, via Facebook and other online social media, Oso now has a custom-fitted Kevlar vest worth $2,500.

“ln light of several recent police K-9 deaths, this generous donation could not have come at a better time,” said Jonathan Ventura, deputy chief of police for Arlington. “These service animals are willing to give their lives to protect their handlers, but these vests can help that from happening.”

Ventura noted that, to date, the Arlington Police K-9 program has been entirely funded by community support.

“That says a lot about our community, their commitment to public safety and officer safety, and their love of animals,” Ventura said.

Oso, a 2-year-old German Shepherd imported from Czechoslovakia, was purchased from Vohne Liche Kennels in Indiana.

After spending nine months on a narcotics canine team, Oso and his handler, Officer Seth Kinney, began their patrol class Jan. 3 in Port Angeles.

Once they complete the class, they will be a dual-purpose team, responding to narcotics detection and criminal apprehension calls.

Oso’s first deployment after being certified resulted in a seizure of two pounds of methamphetamine and $20,000.