Careers: Police/Illegal Imigrant

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Expert: - 9/23/2008


Question
Hi, I just want to ask you, if there would be any problems with me when I apply for job as a police officer if I was illegal in United States for 2 years ( after that i get my green card).
I know there is background check, and that's why I am afraid.  I am now in community college, CJ major.
Thanks for your answer.

Answer
There is no way to give you a "yes" or "no" answer because there are thousands of police departments in this country and every single one has its own hiring standards.  Each one has a police chief who makes different decisions.  If there was a national police force like there is some countries then this would be easier to answer.

Let's say this.  Your little problem certainly is not going to help you.  But it might not hurt you.  They key is to tell the truth because they will find out.

Careers: Police

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Jack Toomey

Expertise

U.S.: I am an expert in this category for the purpose of giving young people an idea what the hiring process involves for the position of police officer. I am getting a flood of questions from young people who are being influenced by unrealistic television shows. I'd ask you to consider that when you watch police shows on television that they are NOT realistic and most of what you see does not happen in real life. Please do not ask me about potential jail sentences that you, your friends, or family might receive in court. There is no way for me to know that. I am NOT a probation officer so I cannot answer questions about probation and parole matters. I am a retired police officer with 26 years experience.I worked in a variety of assignments including investigations, homicide, sex crimes, runaway investigations, missing persons, and fraud.I also dealt with the general public during that time giving a wide range of advice on matters such as domestic disputes, problem solving, teenage problems, civil/criminal matters, and dealing with the mentally ill. I am available to give sound and reasonable advice which can solve most problems. Please do not ask me to do homework questions or online interviews. Young people should not rely on the Internet for interviews. Local police officers are normally very agreeable to assist students with interviews and surveys.

Experience

Worked as a police officer/detective for 26 years.

Graduate of the University of Maryland.B.S. in Law Enforcement.Attended numerous schools and training courses involving investigations, interviewing, interrogations, crime detection, domestic violence, and others. Recognized in court as an expert witness.

Received numerous awards during my police career for expert investigations. Handled the most sensitive and confidential investigations. In 1999 I won an award for my work with high school students while working in my new career in a large suburban high school.

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