Expert: Chris Wagoner - 5/6/2009

Question
QUESTION: Good morning Commander Wagoner,

I recently had a background check done on me through a police department.  
Unfortunately, I am no longer in the running for the job due to that.  No
specific reason was given except that it was due to the background check in
general.

I DID disclose my history of hard drug use (cocaine more than once) and
alcohol abuse (hospitalized 3 times).  This, however, was 12-15 years ago
when I was in high school.

Will my past affect future employment with other departments?  Is it worth it
(to me and to other departments) to continue testing and trying to get a job?

I look forward to your honest response.  Thank you, in advance, for your
time.

ANSWER: Hi Rachael,

With just the little you have told me, I can say your better off looking into another career area. Most departments will not touch you and let me try to explain why.

You call it "hard drug use (cocaine more than once)" I take it that you mean you had taken it on a regular basis? If thats the case or say more than 10 times they look at it as an addiction problem. What they term an addictive personality.

The Alcohol abuse is probably even more scary them as it shows again the addictive personality, and they look at it this way: If we hire this person and put them in a position to have great responsibility, what are the chances they will lapse and cause the department harm? Will they have an alcohol problem again? You were hospitalized 3 times over it, they look at that and say, they didn't learn the first time or the second?

I am just trying to look at it from a hiring agencies point of view. Your drug and alcohol background are signs of an addictive personality and causes concern for the department and posability of liability for them.

I hope that helps explain it.

Good luck in whatever you decide to do and please, be well...



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you so, so much for your honesty!  I figured as much due to zero
tolerance.  

As far as the cocaine use, it was 5 times.  So with this use and the alcohol
abuse, there's probably no chance for me even though it was 12-15 years
ago?  I totally understand the addictive personality (I have my Masters in
Counseling), but, again, this use/abuse was a while ago.

I have been teaching for 7 years, so I have a secure job, but this has been a
long time passion of mine.

ANSWER: Hi Rachael,

Well with the cocaine being only 5 times, and your job now, have you ever thought of trying out for the Police Reserve unit somewhere? You still go through all the background and such, but its a way to get the foot in the door without giving up your current job. Its like being a part-time cop until you are sure its what you want to do or the department makes sure it likes you and you fit the department. Just something to think about. I think you will have a very hard time getting in, but there is always that chance.

Be well and good luck..

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you again, Commander.  I am fearful of giving up my tenure for the police
in this economy, especially if it ends up that I'm not cut out for the job.  So, this
is such a great idea!  One more question, I promise!  Is the police reserve unit
the same as a community service officer?


Answer
Hi Rachael,

No community Service Aides are non-sworn (no arrest powers or guns) and they do non-emergency calls and accident scenes and tings that free up police officers for emergency calls.

Reserve Officers in most areas after training can ride with a sworn officer and carry a gun and have arrest powers.

Good luck in whatever you choose!!