MIDDLETON — Thanks to a tremendous turnout Saturday, area residents helped police raise more than enough money to purchase a $1,000 ballistic vest for the local police dog.

Police Chief Randy Sobel, who serves as the town’s K9 officer, said hundreds of area residents came to the free cookout — hosted by the Middleton Police Association — at the Middleton Old Town Hall.

“I think it was some of the biggest crowds we ever had – even better than our corned beef dinners,” Sobel said, referring to the association’s annual fundraiser in March.

Sobel said he was pleasantly surprised to see people stay to see both K-9 demonstrations, which gave Raven a chance to show off his skills. He added it was a big hit with everyone.

“When he’s in the car, he’s kind of loud and rambunctious,” Sobel said, adding Raven is all business when he’s on the job searching for narcotics or protecting fellow officers.

Although he will not wear it all the time, the new black vest will protect Raven from bullets and knives during dangerous situations during emergencies.

While residents have approved large purchases — such as police cars or fire engines — at the annual town meeting, the community has a long history of purchasing a variety of equipment, including refurbished air tanks and breathing apparatus for firefighters, through local fundraising campaigns.

The small raffles, pancake breakfasts and spaghetti dinners have proven successful means to keep tax bills slightly lower while allowing the community to interact with officials.

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