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Question
I joined the army as a infantrymen i served for over 2 1/2 yrs and went to iraq with perfect conduct. when i returned i had a ruff time and was discharged with a general under honorable conditions for patterns of misconduct nothing serious mostly i had sleep problems and missed work but the army was down sizing under normal conditions it wouldnt have been a big deal just a minor thing but since they where down sizing they used it to discharge me. but will it prevent me from joining the law enforcement or will it just make it a bit harder
Nathan:
Your chances are not good I'm afraid. Most agencies are going to look at that discharge, then request your full military record. When they see it was for a 'pattern of misconduct' that's going to knock you out of the running for the most part. Sorry but that's the way it is, agencies want spotless candidates, because there are soooo many people applying, they are very, very picky.
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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