Every year the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office purchases bullet-proof vests for deputy sheriffs.

The program, known as "Adopt-A-Cop," allows citizens, businesses and civic organizations to adopt a cop and help provide a bullet-proof vest.

The vests cost approximately $600 each and must be replaced every five years. The sponsorship cost is $300. The person(s) or group sponsoring the officer will have his or her picture taken presenting the officer with the vest.

Persons or groups interested in adopting a cop and providing a protective vest, which could ultimately save the officer's life, can contact Deputy Wes Foster at 489-4722, ext. 112.