Expert: Dick Rogers - 2/17/2008

Question
Hello sir, i have a question.  I applied for the NYPD 2 years ago and went thru the whole process.  Everything was fine or above average.  I have military experience, never been arrested, smoked weed only 2x and work history great.  My physical test was above average, i scored # 431 on the written test (of 8,000).  Problem is when i did my oral psyc.  They asked me some alcohol questions.  I am not a drinker, in fact a 6 pack in my fridge can last up to 5 weeks.  I however tought they would not believe me and told them at some point i had 11 beers.  I honestly dont recall this, but it seemed like normal to me.  Actually i can recall back in the Marines at the barracks, my buddies drinking over 15 each and me knocked out after 6 or 7.  Anyways i told them at some point ive had over 10 or 11 and this became a problem.  They DQ me because i am a risk of having alcohol problems( it couldnt be farther from the truth) I have always been the "lightweight" of the group, but i tought they would think i was lying. I am wondering now if i would never be able to get hired for any other department because of this DQ that i had.  Someone told me that its a red flag anywhere i go.  Is this true?  Also if i re-apply with the same police, do i stand any chances? My best friend is a NYPD cop now and he told me to be honest, i guess i was too honest, maybe ive shouldve "embelished" a little no?  Thank you in advance

Answer
Jose, I guess this is one of those situations that underline the idea that you can't be hurt by the truth.  It seems you should have been up front with the oral board regardless of whether you would think they would think you were lying.  One should never to to psych out an oral board.  I really can't address the problem of whether a re-application to the NYPD would be of any benefit in that they have a DQ record for you.  You might try another agency and this time be up front and explain that you never have had a drinking problem and that your recent history can attest to that fact.  If the previous oral board DQ comes up, explain it as you have in your question...that you felt that not sounding reasonable as to intake of beers that you would not be believed.  It sounds like you have dug yourself into a hole that only you can dig out of.  Just be up front and tell it like it was...not what you think they would like to hear.  I would not re-apply to NYPD as departments rarely go against a previous DQ.  Good luck!