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Attorney General Eric Holder  joined President Obama in Columbus, Ohio, Friday at a police graduation ceremony that included 25 officers whose jobs were secured by the $787 billion Recovery Act.

In January, the Columbus Police Department informed recruits that the city did not have enough money to ensure their future employment. Then last month, Columbus secured its share of the $2 billion for state and local law enforcement through the Edward Byrne Justice Assistance Grants that was included in the stimulus package.

“And because of this plan, stories like the one we’re celebrating here in Columbus will soon take place all across this nation,” Obama said in a speech at the ceremony.

[youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TbK6marO3gQ]

The president said the money for law enforcement agencies is ready now, and it can be used for equipment and crime prevention programs in addition to hiring more officers. The allocations from the Justice Department can be found here.

“This funding is key to helping our states and local governments fight crime and keep our streets safe,” Holder said in a statement. “The Department of Justice is moving ahead of schedule to allocate these resources so we can retain police officers, enhance law enforcement capabilities, and ensure that we have the tools and equipment necessary to build safer communities.”