YOUNGSTOWN - The Youngstown Police Department (YPD) welcomed eleven new faces and a new police chaplain to the force on Friday.

During the ceremony, city officials administered the oath of office as the officers pledged to uphold the law and serve residents with integrity and professionalism.

Family members, fellow officers and community leaders attended the event to show their support.

For Youngstown Mayor Derrick McDowell, the new class is part of a broader effort to strengthen the department and rebuild what he calls "Youngstown's finest".

"This is a wonderful testament to the cadet's class that we have leading into our academy and leading on to our force. We're building an infrastructure here so that we can result in what I talk about often, reclaiming our identity," said Mayor McDowell.

Police Chief Sharon Cole said the additional officers will help improve response times and crime reduction efforts, but says staffing challenges remain.

"We're not anywhere near full strength, because at the same time you add 11, you maybe have five or six that are slated to leave as well," said Chief Cole.

Additionally, Chief Cole said community involvement will remain critical to keeping crime rates in the city down.

"The community can always call in. There's Crime Stoppers, and you know, we're always open to anything you can tell us. It helps. We can't do it all on our own," said Chief Cole.

With the oath now taken, the officers will begin serving the community as the newest members of the department.