Expert: Jim Pastore - 9/30/2009

Question
hi, I was wondering if my past mistakes would prevent me from becoming a police officer I have smoked meth one time while not knowing what it was I have taken ecstasy about four times, and smoked weed about 4 times also. I am currently in enrolled in college trying to get my AS in criminal justice, so I was wondering if theres still a possibility for me to become a police officer?

Answer
Philip,

    It's difficult to say how this would affect your chances of being hired. Most Departments understand that as kids we all make mistakes and many experiment with drugs or alcohol. My best advise is to take the test once you finish college. Just remember to be totally honest as the polygraph will show deceit. They are looking more for total honesty then the perfect person, as none of us are perfect.

Jim