Expert: Jim Pastore - 5/6/2009

Question
Hi my name is Colin. I am 19 years old. I realized at 18 I where I want to see myself in life. And I took a look around at some of my friends. As they where starting to go to jail. Being in and out. And realized that that is not what i want with myself. And I am not that kind of person anyway. I decided I want to be a police officer. It is the only thing i can see myself doing. My question is this. I have only been arrested twice. Both as a juvenile. One at 14 years old and the other at 17. Both non-felony crimes. And non-violent and also non-drug related. But I have also experimented with some drugs AS A juvenile. I have smoked some pot, I have tried both ecstasy and acid 1 time. I am also planning on getting a 4 year criminal justice degree. Will I still be able to become a police officer?   Thank you

Answer
Colin,


    When applying for a police officer's job the Departments realize that we all make mistakes, especially as juveniles. They will take into account that you were young and they also realize that many young people have experimented with drugs. One of the main things they are looking for is total honesty and sincerity in you wanting to be an officer for the right reason. My suggestion is to get your degree and while doing so keep your grades up. By the time you graduate it will put more time between the time you apply for a job and your past mistakes. Just be sure to keep out of ANY trouble between now and then. Good Luck, I hope this helped some.

Jim