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New Iberia Police Department begins patrols

Posted at 1:04 AM, Jul 02, 2018
and last updated 2018-07-02 02:04:54-04
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bO0Mk2vtbxc?rel=0&showinfo=0]

The New Iberia Police Department has officially begun patrolling. The community welcomed the officers Sunday as they went out on patrols. 

Signs were held outside of Main Street in New Iberia, showcasing how most people feel about the department’s comeback. 

"The sheriff’s department had such a big job, and we need the police department in our city," Vicki Murdock said. 

The city is welcoming the newly formed police department that hasn’t been around in over a decade.

For most residents, knowing there will be more cops on the streets makes them feel a little safer, including former Mayor of New Iberia Hilda Curry. 

"When I first was in office, people voted against bringing it back, but I knew that over the years that there was a change of heart," Curry said. "I’m so happy that they’re back. We need community policing. I was president of the Louisiana mayor’s association, and we were the largest city throughout the state that did not have a police department. It’s very important that we have someone patrolling our streets." 

While patrols are just beginning, some are hopeful it could bring change to the city. 

"There are so many crimes going on within the city," Murdock said. "I think it’s a good thing."