ST. CHARLES, IL – St. Charles is in mourning this week following the tragic loss of K-9 officer Hudson, who bravely served the Kane County Sheriff’s Office.
Hudson was killed on scene Wednesday afternoon following a vehicular high jacking that ended in a shootout and the death of a suspect.
Hudson’s passing has sparked an overwhelming outpouring of support, with community members seeking ways to contribute to the K-9 Fund, an initiative dedicated to honoring Hudson’s memory and bolstering the K-9 program. To lend their support, individuals have two convenient options for donations. They can contribute through the Venmo account “Kane County Sheriff’s Office Canine Fund” on the official website, www.kanesheriff.com.
Alternatively, donations can be made by mailing a check payable to the County Sheriff’s Office, with “K-9 Fund” mentioned in the memo section, to the office’s address at 37W755 IL Rt 38, St. Charles, IL 60175.
The loss of K-9 Hudson serves as a poignant reminder of the daily risks faced by law enforcement officers and their loyal K-9 partners in ensuring community safety. By donating to the K-9 Fund, individuals can help preserve Hudson’s memory while providing vital support to the Kane County Sheriff’s Office’s K-9 program, guaranteeing its ongoing success.
As the St. Charles community mourns the loss of K-9 Hudson, the Kane County Sheriff’s Office extends heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming support and condolences received. Each donation made to the K-9 Fund symbolizes a shared commitment to honoring Hudson’s legacy and reinforcing the K-9 program’s crucial role in safeguarding the community.
In a related announcement, the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Department revealed that K-9 Colt of the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office has received a much-needed body armor donation. Thanks to the charitable contribution from the non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., K-9 Colt now possesses a bullet and stab protective vest, adorned with the poignant sentiment “Honoring those who served and sacrificed.”
Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., established in 2009, is a 501(c)(3) charity with a mission to provide protective vests and other assistance to law enforcement and related agencies’ canine officers across the United States. These custom-fitted and NIJ-certified body armors, made in the U.S., are potentially life-saving equipment. With both private and corporate donations, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has equipped over 5,077 K-9s in all 50 states, with a total value of $6.9 million.
The program is open to eligible U.S. dogs, at least 20 months old, actively employed, and certified with law enforcement or related agencies. Even K-9s with expired vests are eligible for participation. With an estimated 30,000 law enforcement K-9s nationwide, the need for protective gear is crucial.
Contributions to Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. are tax-deductible, with any amount welcomed. A donation of $985 will sponsor one vest, while each vest holds a value of $1800.00 and weighs approximately 4-5 pounds, backed by a five-year warranty. For more information, including volunteer opportunities, please contact 508-824-6978. To donate or learn more about the organization, visit www.vik9s.org, or send contributions to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.
The St. Charles community’s rallying support and the generous donation to K-9 Colt demonstrate the unwavering dedication to honoring and protecting these invaluable four-legged members of law enforcement
