Expert: Dick Rogers - 9/12/2008

Question
I am filling out my background packet for Deputy Sheriff and I have a question on drugs. About ten years ago just after high school I tried some illegal drugs including Meth, LSD and cocaine. I only used these drugs a couple of times and they scared the heck out of me. I have never used a drug since. Will this disqualify me?

Answer
Dustin, I get this question many times...basically, if you were involved with drugs early on...most likely as a young teenager...then when you are interviewed, you would describe your experience as "experimental" and once trying it decided it was not your cup of tea.  Don't get into long dialogs on how much or how often, just that you gave a few things a shot and could see that following that course with ones life was not an option for you.