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Careers: Police/Baltimore Police Drug Policy
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Question
QUESTION: Hi, I am a 25 year old bond trader from NYC. My dream has always been a career in LE. I have never been arrested of any crime, done any hard drugs, bought drugs, and or sold drugs. I was, however, a social pot smoker 3 years ago. I smoked pot socially from ages 19-22. I have been completly clean for a little over 3 years. What are my chances if any of being hired as a Baltimore City police officer?
ANSWER: Joseph:
If by 'socially' you mean just a few times, you'll be ok. If by 'socially' you mean 1 once a month for 3 years, or more, you'll be disqualified.
Jason
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: It was more like once a month for 3 years. So this automatically dq's me? I have no other past drug use, my credit is perfect, no arrests, not even a parking ticket. Does this bad phase in my life really mean I can't become a Baltimore City cop? Also, what are my other choices, if any, in any other cities for LE.
Pretty much, yes. Maryland is EXTREMELY strict about drug use, and anything over a certain amount is an automatic disqualifier, no matter what else your record might be. There are no waivers. Baltimore falls under the same rules that the Maryland Police Training Commission sets down for the state. Once a month for 3 years is going to put your useage 'over' what Maryland allows. That having been said, you can certainly try with BPD, and explain your situation when you do the 'initial' show up for paperwork at City PD. You'll know then for sure.
Jason
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Answers by Expert:
Jason Grabill
Expertise
General Maryland Law Enforcement, Maryland Law & Traffic Law, the Court System. How to start the process to become a Police Officer, different Police careers, the Interview process, General Police career questions
Experience
18 Years experience as a local and Federal Police officer. In addition to working "the road", I've worked as an Academy Instructor, Law Digest Compiler for Police Department, Community Policing coordinator, Department Gang officer, Bike Patrol Officer, and Advanced Accident Investigator. I've also served on the SWAT/SRT team, and currently work for the Department of Army Police (Federal Civilian) at Fort Detrick, Frederick Md, as a Sergeant. I'm Certified as a Police and Emergency Medical dispatcher through the National Academies of Emergency Dispatch.
Organizations
Police Marksman Association
Fraternal Order of Police
Education/Credentials
South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy
Prince Georges County Maryland Municipal Police Academy, Western Maryland Police Academy
Radar, Portable Breath Test, PR-24 Police Baton, ASP, Police Mountain Bike Certified. Maryland Police Training Commission Basic Instructor Certified.
CALEA Certified Field Training Officer (FTO), Advanced Criminal Investigator School, Advanced Crash Investigator School, National Academies of Emergency Dispatch Certified Emergency Police Dispatch, Emergency Medical Dispatch, Emergency Telecommunications Operator.
Awards and Honors
Police Officer of the Year, Prince Georges County Municipal Police Chiefs Association (1995).
City of District Heights Police Officer of the Year, 1995.
Distinguished Service Cross for Valor, 1995 (National Association Chiefs of Police).
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