Expert: William Payne - 4/27/2008

Question
Hello, My name is Dustin and I am 27 years old. I was just accepted to the police academy in my state. In my past, I had a problem with depression. I made a feeble attempt at suicide, then checked myself into the hospital for a couple of days. I have not had a problem since, and that has been over 8 years ago. I was also terminated as a dispatcher also 8 years ago, but not for that reason. I had minor theft in Jr. High, but I was never charged, just suspended from school. I had a bankruptcy about 6 years ago.

Since this time, I have had no problems with depression. I have been married for 4 years. Raised our son to be a straight A student (he is 10). I have not made 1 late payment in over 4 years. I have held steady jobs, and I am well liked among my co-workers.

My question is, would it be a waste of time for me to go through the academy? Will I even have a chance of getting a job when I graduate. I know that acceptance to the academy doesn't guarantee anything, that is why I asked.

Thanks so much!

Answer
Dustin,

It's really hard to say, law enforcement agencies require different sets of standards from state to state, and town to town.

There are certain minimal requirements in each state as for qualifications in becoming a police officer. You can check into those and see if it says anything about prior hospitalization for depression or previous arrests.

I would probably say that in a lot of states you would not qualify because of the previous bad credit history and depression.

I do know some officers that take medication to control depression and they have been some good police officers.

Whatever state you reside in should have some minimal standards that are required, so I would start with checking that and see where you stand.


Good luck and best wishes!