PROVIDENCE, R.I. -- The city is looking to hire at least 40 police officers, and a federal grant that Providence has received will pay the first three years of salary and benefits for 18 of the planned hires.
Police Chief Hugh Clements said Friday -- the first day people can apply -- that he feels like a kid on Christmas morning because "we absolutely need more officers."
Clements and Mayor Angel Taveras said historically, a dozen officers retire every year. The city lost more in 2011 because several took an early-retirement incentive to spare the layoffs of 75 officers.
City residents will be given additional points for applying. Clements also hopes to add more diversity the department with this academy, who can begin patrolling by April 2014.
The force currently has 422 officers, said Clements.