Expert: Aaron Shifferly - 5/30/2009

Question
I am attempting to join the Army as an officer and attend OCS. I have been arrested for Domestic Violence but was amended to a non-violent Disturbing the Peace charge. Would this effect my chances in getting accepted into OCS? The language of the complaint states, " I had a verbal argument with the bouncers at the China Blue Bar, which is in violation of Idaho Code 18-6409"

Answer
Were you arrested or convicted? The difference is huge and could seriously factor into your ability to join the Army.  If convicted, there is a provision out there called the Lautenberg Amendment that may come into play when we allow you to handle weapons, but if not, then you should be ok to join the Army.  The OCS portion is controlled by the recruiter and career counselor at MEPS. As long as you meet the requisite requirements; pass a physical, college degree, and a few others, you should be able to get OCS written into your contract.  DO NOT SIGN the contract to join the Army without it mentioning OCS as your stop after basic training or you are guaranteed nothing.  Hope this helps.