The Bismarck Police Department’s K9 Mesa is being awarded a protective bullet and stab proof vest from Vested Interest in K9s Inc. Bismarck Police Department K9 Mesa is a 2 year old female German Shepherd/Belgian Malinois cross. She is certified in Patrol and Narcotic detection. Mesa began service in July of 2017 and is assigned to Officer Benke. She has a fun loving personality, but when it is time to work, she is very committed to her duties. Mesa and Officer Benke are always ready to do what needs to be done to protect the citizens of Bismarck.
Vested Interest in K9s Inc. is a non-profit group that was established in 2009 to assist law enforcement agencies obtain this potentially lifesaving body armor for their four-legged K9 officers. Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s Inc. has provided over 2,900 protective vests, in all 50 states. Each certified vest costs between $1,795 - $2,234, has a warranty of 5 years and is custom fitted for each dog. The funds are raised by Vested Interest in K9s Inc. through donations.
All of the Bismarck Police Departments K9s are equipped with these vests.