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Careers: Police/Criminal Backgrounds

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Expert: - 1/5/2011


Question
I have recently explored my options so I can start my adventure on becoming a successful, and productive citizen. I have contepmlated the Navy, or police work. My father was in the Navy, and he figured it'd be a good ieda to go into the Navy, and then get out after a couple of years, and go for a police job. I was wondering about the criminal background checks. I have had a troubled past. I was involved in a lot of fights, and due to the fact I've been charged w/ severl offenses I.E simple assault, aggrivated assault, and battery. How strict are most police agencies about criminal backgrounds?

Answer
Rob,

There really is no "yes" or "no" answer to your question.  The reason is that every police department in the country has its own hiring standards.  I can tell you that someone with a criminal record would not be considered for MY department unless it was a juvenile record of little consequence.  I hope that you realize that the Navy is very selective on who they take aboard.  Your record could and very well could disqualify you for Navy service.

Careers: Police

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Jack Toomey

Expertise

U.S.: I am an expert in this category for the purpose of giving young people an idea what the hiring process involves for the position of police officer. I am getting a flood of questions from young people who are being influenced by unrealistic television shows. I'd ask you to consider that when you watch police shows on television that they are NOT realistic and most of what you see does not happen in real life. Please do not ask me about potential jail sentences that you, your friends, or family might receive in court. There is no way for me to know that. I am NOT a probation officer so I cannot answer questions about probation and parole matters. I am a retired police officer with 26 years experience.I worked in a variety of assignments including investigations, homicide, sex crimes, runaway investigations, missing persons, and fraud.I also dealt with the general public during that time giving a wide range of advice on matters such as domestic disputes, problem solving, teenage problems, civil/criminal matters, and dealing with the mentally ill. I am available to give sound and reasonable advice which can solve most problems. Please do not ask me to do homework questions or online interviews. Young people should not rely on the Internet for interviews. Local police officers are normally very agreeable to assist students with interviews and surveys.

Experience

Worked as a police officer/detective for 26 years.

Graduate of the University of Maryland.B.S. in Law Enforcement.Attended numerous schools and training courses involving investigations, interviewing, interrogations, crime detection, domestic violence, and others. Recognized in court as an expert witness.

Received numerous awards during my police career for expert investigations. Handled the most sensitive and confidential investigations. In 1999 I won an award for my work with high school students while working in my new career in a large suburban high school.

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