Thursday marked graduation day for a brand-new class of Suffolk County police officers.

The 70 recruits underwent about six months of rigorous training.

One new officer, Samantha Ventura, says she joined the force because it was the wish of her father who was killed four years ago in the Dominican Republic.

"I know that he is so proud of me," she said. "Out of all of his children he knew that I'll become this and I actually did it. Although it was extremely hard to get through this, but I did it. I'm so happy."

Fifty-six of the recruits are now members of the Suffolk Police Department. Fourteen others will join outside and associated agencies.