Twenty-two new recruits were sworn-in on Monday into the ranks of the Paterson Police Department.

The new cadets will act as probationary police officers, thanks to funds from the COPS Hiring Program grant.

Jordan Bruce, a recruit, told News 12 what inspires him to protect and serve.

"Growing up, my father was by biggest inspiration, my biggest role model. He was a police officer. I've seen the good he's done with the community, making it better and being very positive," he said. "I want to be what he was – an inspiration to the community, just making it better every day."

The new recruits will head to the police academy next week and are slated to graduate in June.