SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — Friday was a special day for a group of law enforcement officers in southeastern South Dakota.

17 people graduated from the Law Enforcement Training Program based in Sioux Falls.

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KELOLAND News introduced you to Jason Vultaggio shortly before he started the Sioux Falls regional academy.

Friday was graduation day for the Sioux Falls police officer after he completed the 13-week basic law enforcement certification course.

“Hard, a lot of work, a lot of hours put into it, a lot of teamwork, a lot of camaraderie that was built. I have a new family here now, which feels incredible,” Vultaggio said.

Vultaggio is one of 14 graduates for the Sioux Falls Police Department.

Meanwhile, the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office has three graduates from the academy.

“I was thinking back on it just yesterday with my classmates, all the things we’ve done, accomplished and thinking about in the moment they were very difficult, they were extreme challenges, but looking back on it, it was good to see that we helped each other through, we persevered, and we overcame, and now we’re here finally reaping that reward for all the hard work we did,” said Marcos Loa with the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office.

Attorney General Marty Jackley thanked the group for choosing law enforcement.

Jackley’s advice to the officers is to stay healthy.

“And that is focus on your family. Focus on doing the things you love. That will make you a stronger officer when you’re at work,” Jackley said.

While graduating is a satisfying feeling for Vultaggio he knows there’s more training ahead before he can patrol the streets on his own.

“We have a long way to go after this. This is just the beginning, but accomplished,” Vultaggio said.

The Sioux Falls program was started in 2020.

It’s the same training as the Pierre-based academy.