Careers: Police/Juvenile record

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Expert: - 10/25/2010


Question
Jason, I am in the process for a position in Law Enforcement in a Maryland agency. I am hearing that my juvenile record may keep me out. I had 3 felony grand theft charges as a juvenile. All were the same incident and at the same time. Got probation and community service which I completed no issue. This was 24 yeas ago- spotless ever since.. I can find no definite guidelines as to what the MPCTC will do as to me being certifiable as a LEO. My background Investigator says we turn in my paperwork and wait an see?? Is there no clear guideline and is it just hoping that the guy or gal looking over my paperwork is in a good mood that particular day?? Any thoughts?? Thanks

Answer
Rob:

 You, and your BI, are right on the money.  It's a completely arbitrary and capricious system.   Totally up to the department, and how 'risk averse' they are feeling at the moment.  While I wouldn't think it would be an issue...it's going to totally depend on the agency and the whiteshirt who reviews  your app.

 Yes.  It sucks.  I've been there.

Best of luck!  

Jason

Careers: Police

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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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