Cranston Police K-9s Receive Bullet, Stab Protective Vests Donation

CRANSTON, RI — The Cranston Police Department on Thursday said its two new K-9 officers, Ryken and Czar, received bullet and stab protective vests, following a donation from a nonprofit.

Police said K-9 Ryken's vest, sponsored by Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. is embroidered with the sentiment "In memory of K-9 Lex." Lex died in September 2022 after battling cancer.

K-9 Czar’s vest, sponsored by Nancy Scime of Charlestown is embroidered with the sentiment "Born to Love, Trained to Serve, Loyal Always."

Vested Interest in K9s Inc. donated the vests to Cranston police. The nonprofit was established in 2009 and works to provide protective vests for police K-9s throughout the United States.

Police said Vested Interest's vests are custom-made for each K-9 officer.

"The Cranston Police K-9 unit is grateful that Ryken and Czar have been provided the latest body armor equipment," Cranston Police Chief Michael Winquist said. "These K-9s are thrust into critical situations, including the apprehension of non-compliant suspects, narcotics, high risk searches and other dangerous situations. We remain confident when sending these highly trained canines into these situations, that they have maximum protection."