AboutEric Potts Expertise I am a Veteran of The United States Army where I served as a Military Police Officer for 6 years and have been a Municipal Police Officer for 20 years. I am a certified Arson Investigator, as well as a certified Community Police Officer. I am a DARE teacher in the local schools. I am a Defensive Driving Instructor and worked for years as a Detective specializing in White Collar Crime.
I'm qualified to answer general law enforcement questions, general procedure questions (all departments have different rules and regulations. I can answer questions about how to become a law enforcement officer, career paths in Law Enforcement,and questions that might help someone understand why an officer acted a certain way.
I am also a Police Suicide Awareness trainer and a member of the NJ Critical Incident Response Team
Experience I have 26 years total Law Enforcement experience in a wide range of areas. I have worked as a Detective and a Patrolman and have made well over 1,000 arrests in my career.
Education/Credentials Graduated from the United States Army Military Police School
Basic Law Enforcement Training
Arson Investigators School
DARE Officer Training
Interview and Interogation School
Police Suicide and Awareness Trainer
Expert: Eric Potts Date: 6/10/2008 Subject: Background
Question Hey Eric, my name is Joe and I just had a quick question maybe you could help me out on. First off I am ex-military (MOS 19D, Cav. Scout). I also have an Associate Degree In Criminal Justice (Applied Science). I am 24 years old, however when I was 18 I was arrested for possession of MJ...I didnt get convicted the judge gave me a conditional discharge. It's come to my understanding that a conditional discharge is not a conviction. Just wanting to find out your opioion on my chances of getting hired. I've always wanted to be a police officer that is why I joined the military and finished up my degree, hoping that it might make me a more sought-after recuirt even with the arrest.
Thanks,
Joe
Answer Hi Joe,
I'd say your chances are very good. You obviously learned from your mistake, entered the service and definately have shown that you have matured and are ready to become a Police Officer. Even though the conviction was dismissed through conditional discharge do not hide it on your application, you are well on your way.
