Cleveland County K-9 Deputies Receive Armored Vests

Three of Cleveland County Sheriff's K-9 deputies received some early Christmas gifts this week.

According to the Sheriff's Office, Bruno and Rex, both German Shepherds, and Duke, a black Labrador retriever, were given the ballistic vests during a presentation Wednesday at the Sheriff's Office.

Officials said earlier in August, Knights of Columbus Council 9901 from St. Andrew Catholic Church in Moore bought a bullet-resistant vest for K-9 deputy, Batu, a 4-year-old German shepherd. The council pledged to purchase another one as well.

8/15/2011 Related Story: Cleveland County K-9 Receives Bullet-Resistant Vest

Vicki Palmer, of Oklahoma City, purchased two more vests for the other K-9 deputies. Authorities said now all four of the Sheriff's K-9 deputies have armored vests to protect them at work.

Sheriff Joe Lester presented The Knights of Columbus and Palmer with Guardian Awards to show appreciation for their support and generosity.

"If it wasn't for this generous group of people, we couldn't provide these dogs with the level of protection they need to do their jobs and protect their handlers," Lester said. "These dogs and handlers put their lives on the line every day to protect Cleveland County."

Jose Chavez, Chief of Operations at the Sheriff's Office, said the partnership with the community is the most valued resource.

"Due to the generosity of Ms. Palmer and the members of the Knights of Columbus, Saint Andrews Catholic Church, all the dogs assigned to the sheriff's office now have the same protection as their deputy handlers," Chavez said.