You are here:
- Home
- News/Issues
- Law Enforcement
- Careers: Police
- Becoming a police officer
Careers: Police/Becoming a police officer
Advertisement
Question
I'm 18 now and i'll be graduating high school in a few months and i have always wanted to be a police officer. But i've had a few misdemeanor juvenile offenses. I have an underage drinking, shoplifting, disorderly conduct, and an agricultural trespass on an atv and one speeding ticket. All of these were times of bad judgement for me and it has taught me my lesson. I havent gotten into any trouble for about a year now. I know these offenses can't bar me from becoming a police officer, but i dont want to go through all the schooling just to find out that no one will hire me. so i'd like to know what you think my chances are at getting a job as a patrol officer.
Justin:
While they won't neccessarily bar you farther down the road, if they are within the last few years, likely no agency is going to seriously consider hiring you at this time. I'd highly suggest you look at the military, (any branch) do a good 4 years, get an honorable discharge, and then look at law enforcement.
Right now, you will be competing with veterans, and most departments automatically give them preference. My agency won't even look at non veterans resumes.
Not only will you be serving your country, it'll help get these other things behind you so you are more competitive with others applying.
Chances of getting hired at this point, or even 2 years from now, are slim.
Related Articles
Answers by Expert:
Jason Grabill
Expertise
General Maryland Law Enforcement, Maryland Law & Traffic Law, the Court System. How to start the process to become a Police Officer, different Police careers, the Interview process, General Police career questions
Experience
18 Years experience as a local and Federal Police officer. In addition to working "the road", I've worked as an Academy Instructor, Law Digest Compiler for Police Department, Community Policing coordinator, Department Gang officer, Bike Patrol Officer, and Advanced Accident Investigator. I've also served on the SWAT/SRT team, and currently work for the Department of Army Police (Federal Civilian) at Fort Detrick, Frederick Md, as a Sergeant. I'm Certified as a Police and Emergency Medical dispatcher through the National Academies of Emergency Dispatch.
Organizations
Police Marksman Association
Fraternal Order of Police
Education/Credentials
South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy
Prince Georges County Maryland Municipal Police Academy, Western Maryland Police Academy
Radar, Portable Breath Test, PR-24 Police Baton, ASP, Police Mountain Bike Certified. Maryland Police Training Commission Basic Instructor Certified.
CALEA Certified Field Training Officer (FTO), Advanced Criminal Investigator School, Advanced Crash Investigator School, National Academies of Emergency Dispatch Certified Emergency Police Dispatch, Emergency Medical Dispatch, Emergency Telecommunications Operator.
Awards and Honors
Police Officer of the Year, Prince Georges County Municipal Police Chiefs Association (1995).
City of District Heights Police Officer of the Year, 1995.
Distinguished Service Cross for Valor, 1995 (National Association Chiefs of Police).
©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.