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Question
Sorry if this is redundant but I am a Maryland resident, 22 years old and would like to have a future career in law enforcement. I unfortunately have used perscription meds recreationally, coccaine, mushrooms, and pot. I also recently was charged with a DUI, does any of this directly DQ from becoming an officer. I have been completely sober for months and know I am years off from even consideration of employment in law enforcement. Also is there anything I should look to do to help with future employment.
Matt:
DUI, 5-10 years DQ. Cocaine and Mushrooms, usually permanant DQ in Maryland. Pretty much, you are DQ'd for at least the next 10 years, if not permanantly. Maryland is extremely strict on drug use and in many agencies, a 'one time' use is enough to DQ you. The Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commission, which regulates MD law enforcement, sets the minimum standards, agencies many times make them tougher, but they can't make them looser.
Jason
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Answers by Expert:
Jason Grabill
Expertise
General Maryland Law Enforcement, Maryland Law & Traffic Law, the Court System. How to start the process to become a Police Officer, different Police careers, the Interview process, General Police career questions
Experience
18 Years experience as a local and Federal Police officer. In addition to working "the road", I've worked as an Academy Instructor, Law Digest Compiler for Police Department, Community Policing coordinator, Department Gang officer, Bike Patrol Officer, and Advanced Accident Investigator. I've also served on the SWAT/SRT team, and currently work for the Department of Army Police (Federal Civilian) at Fort Detrick, Frederick Md, as a Sergeant. I'm Certified as a Police and Emergency Medical dispatcher through the National Academies of Emergency Dispatch.
Organizations
Police Marksman Association
Fraternal Order of Police
Education/Credentials
South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy
Prince Georges County Maryland Municipal Police Academy, Western Maryland Police Academy
Radar, Portable Breath Test, PR-24 Police Baton, ASP, Police Mountain Bike Certified. Maryland Police Training Commission Basic Instructor Certified.
CALEA Certified Field Training Officer (FTO), Advanced Criminal Investigator School, Advanced Crash Investigator School, National Academies of Emergency Dispatch Certified Emergency Police Dispatch, Emergency Medical Dispatch, Emergency Telecommunications Operator.
Awards and Honors
Police Officer of the Year, Prince Georges County Municipal Police Chiefs Association (1995).
City of District Heights Police Officer of the Year, 1995.
Distinguished Service Cross for Valor, 1995 (National Association Chiefs of Police).
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