Berkeley College Donation Secures 2 K-9 Bulletproof Vests

WHITE PLAINS, NY — The cost of two K-9 police officer bulletproof vests was donated to the White Plains Police Department by Berkeley College. The school had a brief ceremony Tuesday in which Michael J. Smith, president of Berkeley College, acknowledged the donation with White Plains Mayor Thomas Roach and members of the Office of Public Safety.

Smith said his college has had a longstanding relationship with the White Plains community, going back to 1945.

"Our employees, our students and our graduates live and work here," he said. "Due to the great leadership in this community, we are very fortunate, because we all feel safe here, including our international students.

"Safety is a hallmark of this community, and Berkeley is pleased to continue showing support for this valuable resource," Smith said.

The college has supported the city's efforts to have canine officer teams since the city began using the animals nine years ago.

Those original K-9s have retired but the college's support continues.

The cost of the customized bulletproof vests is about $1,400, according to a spokeswoman.

David Chong, commissioner of the Office of Public Safety for White Plains, said the new K-9s can use the vests and be well-protected.

"Your students gave us a donation to establish these K-9 units that do tremendous work," he said. "You should know that our K-9s also are good citizens as they go into our schools."

Caption for photo montage above: Steven Spano, White Plains Police Officer (left) with his canine, Mickey, wearing one of the bulletproof vests purchased with funds donated by Berkeley College. Top right: Dignitaries at the brief ceremony recognizing the partnership between Berkeley College and the City of White Plains are (left to right:) Michael J. Smith, President of Berkeley College; David Chong, Commissioner, Office of Public Safety and Thomas Roach, Mayor, both of the City of White Plains; and Benjamin Boykin, Chairman, Westchester County Board of Legislators. Bottom right: A journalist conducts an interview with K-9 Unit Police Officer Steven Spano and his K-9, Leo.

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