RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — 27 new graduates from the Raleigh Police Academy are eager to serve their community after graduating as part of the 131st academy Friday.

"I’m feeling excited and also incredibly humbled," said Sydney Downs, one of the dozens of graduates, "Having a close family unit really impacted me in serving others and really just showing everyone love. I got married to my husband last year and we moved up to Raleigh and I really wanted to serve the community."

The dozens of new officers will help bolster a force in a city that continues to grow quickly.

"Having new recruits join our ranks certainly helps out with our staffing, but it also just brings better police services to our community, which is ultimately what we endeavor to do," said David Hicks, RPD's Director of Trai

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