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Question
Hello! My name is Clarissa Hector. I am currently getting my associates degree in criminal justice. I have always wanted to become a police officer. Back in 2006 i was arrested for felony theft. I was not convicted, and i do not have a criminal record. Never been in trouble, don't use drugs or alcohol. Just had a crazy roommate that tried to ruin my life. Would this ruin my chances for becoming a police officer??
Clarissa,
Since there are thousands of police departments in this country, each with its own hiring standards, I cannot give you a "yes" or "no" answer since each department operates independantly of each other.
Probably the best way of answering your question is to tell you that your arrest certainly will not help you. But with the right explanation, if you get that far in the hiring process, it might not hurt you.
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Answers by Expert:
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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