Union County Sheriff's K-9 Unit

Union County Sheriff’s Office K9 Jackal has received a bullet and stab protective vest thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. K9 Jackal’s vest was sponsored by Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. and embroidered with the sentiment “In memory of LCPL. Leon B. Deraps USMC Semper Fi”.

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 NIJ certified. Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided over 5,514 vests to K9s in all 50 states at a value of $6.9 million, made possible by both private and corporate donations.

The program is open to U.S. dogs that are at least 20 months old and 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. 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.

The Union County Sheriff’s K9 Unit is saddened to announce the passing of retired K9 Marco on March 8, 2024. K9 Marco was born in Hungary on February 16, 2012, and began his career with the Union County Sheriff’s Office in January 2014. K9 Marco was dual-trained in patrol work and narcotics detection but is most remembered for his gentle demeanor and loyalty to his handler.

K9 Marco retired from the Sheriff’s Office in July 2021. We offer our condolences to Sergeant Gialanella and his family for their loss.

The Union County Sheriff's K9 Unit is saddened to announce the passing of retired K9 Reese. K9 Reese passed peacefully in his home, surrounded by his loving family, on August 1, 2023. K9 Reese was born in Hungary on August 28, 2010, and began his career with the Union County Sheriff's Office in March 2012. He was dual-trained in patrol work and narcotics detection. K9 Reese retired from the Sheriff's Office in 2019. We offer our condolences to Sergeant O'Grady and his family for their loss.