Philadelphia police recruits go through new training

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- 80 Philadelphia police recruits became the first to go through a unique new training program.

Commissioner Charles Ramsey welcomed them to "Policing in a More Perfect Union," at the National Constitution Center.

Ramsey developed the program to help the recruits better understand the role of police in a democracy.

"It's not just about the technical aspects of policing. It's also about our responsibility in protecting people's constitutional rights, not just enforcing law. It's also important that they understand the history of policing, and why there is such tension in some communities," Ramsey said.

Teens also met with the recruits to share their experiences and impressions of police.

Ramsey not only hopes to have new officers, but current ones, do the program.