Youngstown police welcomed four new officers to their ranks Tuesday morning. 

Mayor John McNally swore in the new officers, ahead of a four-month training schedule. 

Police Chief Robin Lees says the new additions bring the department's total number of officers up to 154, which is just shy of the 160 that the department has said is their goal. 

Lees said the four officers bring a variety of experience to the department. Between them, the four have worked at police departments in Lisbon, Sebring, and Poland Village; as well as the Mahoning County Sheriff's Department. 

Chief Lees said he's proud to welcome the new officers, He said it's proof that Youngstown is an attractive department for officers with experience.

Lees told 21 News that officers often come to the largest department in the area because of the chance to specialize in certain areas. 

As the main outfitter for the area's Vice Squad, Bomb Squad, and SWAT Team, Lees said there are plenty of opportunities for new recruits to move up the ladder and serve the city, and surrounding communities. 

Tuesday's new recruits are part of a continuing effort by the Youngstown Police Department to fill the ranks and hire 12 new officers in 2017.