Expert: Jason Grabill - 6/28/2009

Question
Good afternoon sir,
Thank you for taking time in reading my question. I am a 21 year old United States Marine getting ready to be honorably discharged with no NJP. Been in trouble once with the Marines but only minor paper work, no loss in rank or fine or anything to that matter. But i have been in trouble in my younger years as a teenager. All violations were in the state of New Jersey. Made many bad choices but cleaned up my act and was wondering if these choices would prevent me from BPD.

15 yrs old. Possession of marijuana.- no fine just had to attend 10 NA meeting ordered by judge.
16 yrs old. assault charge- attend scared straight program
17 yrs old. Possession of marijuana.- 6 month probation, 6 month loss of license, impounded car, $1200 fine.
18 yrs old. arrested on warrant due to unpaid traffic ticket.-no other action taken just paid the fine and court cost.

now on top of my legal stupidities i had used marijuana(according to the USMC waiver 110 times) ,cocaine(handful of times),acid(once),and mushrooms (twice)

I stated drug usage because it is to my understanding that i would be asked these questions in a polygraph test, and i would rather tell them the truth as opposed to lie. With no other police involvment and my honorable discharge from the military would i have a problem becoming a Baltimore City Police Officer?

Thank you

Cpl X
USMC

Answer
John:

I'm afraid your excessive drug useage is going to prevent you from becoming a police officer in the State of Maryland, in ANY jurisdiction.  

 Quite frankly, I'd suggest re-enlisting, the long term benefits are far better.  I know, I've BTDT.  But realistically, you stand zero chance of getting hired in Maryland.  Sorry.

Jason