Expert: James Bell - 7/15/2009

Question
I was arrested 3 years ago for bouncing a check.  I did not know I bounced it, it was the first check i've ever bounced and have not bounced any since.  The warrant was issued, I was pulled over for rolling stop (which i didn't get a ticket for) warrant was served, cop took me to county.  The check was for 1100 dollars to a car dealership as my down payment.  I got a PR bond and got out of jail free card.  Was ordered to show up to the courthouse on such and such case but before i went up in front of the judge both parties met behind closed doors.  I told them it was an accident and i was willing to give them a certified check to make this all go away.  I paid "restituion" the word the guy used and didn't have to go in front of the judge.  I took that as me never being convicted of the crime.  I have been hired at a job where they ran my background check and it came back clean.  Would the arrest stop me from joining the airforce even if i was never convicted of the crime and there is nothing on my criminal record?  Thanks

Answer
Joshua -

The biggest thing the military looks at is convictions.  Anyone can get arrested, but you don't have a "criminal record" until a judgment has been handed down that carries the potential for jail time.

I had the same situation: A group of young kids, a window was broken, charges filed, restitution paid, and charges dropped.  When I joined the Air Force, the back ground check revealed the arrest, but nothing was held against me when I applied for enlistment.  When you go through the entrance process, be sure to mention the action.  By fully disclosing all that happened, they can't accuse you of hiding anything when it shows up on a background check.

I hope this answers your question.

Sincerely,
James Bell