Expert: Loren Stevens - 11/12/2006

Question
Hello,
I am in college right now and am interested in the idea of becoming a detective. When I was about 15 I got in some minor trouble (shoplifting), which was incredibly stupid. However, I was wondering if that would ruin any hopes of becoming a detective? Thank you so much

Answer
Hello Sara,
I doubt your youthful indiscretions will ruin your career chances in LE.
Juvenile records are generally sealed upon reaching the age of 18, unless there is a capital offense or something very serious in it.
Many agencies polygraph applicants now, as they are seeking to find out two primary areas of concern: Drug use, and Honesty issues, as it pertains to "character".
If asked, tell the truth, that when you were young, you exercised a regretable lack of judgement on an occasion. But as an adult, you are the picture of honesty etc.
Even though the juvenile record may be sealed, YOU still know that you were culpable on an offense, after attaining an age of knowing right from wrong. If you hedge on the past, it will probably come back to bite you on a polygraph chart. So, my counsel is to be upfront and candid with all inquiry. That way, you shouldn't have any spasims while on the box.
Also, as a side note. You normally don't walk in the door of a LE agency as a Detective.
City and county agencies usually require you to hire on as a police officer/deputy first. About 10% of applicants get hired. More wash ot during the academy, and night/field problems, and during the year or so of riding with an FTO (field training officer).
USUALLY, an agency won't consider you for an investigative position, until after you successfully complete your "probationary" period, and then while on your own, demonstrate the quantity/quality of your sustained performance. If you can't illustrate that you are a top uniform officer, you are not apt to be assigned to investigations.
Now, many state and federal agencies have no uniform service component and you ARE hired to be an investigator after completing their academy. These agencies tend to require a BS/BA degree for openers.
There are many LE agencies in the DOJ, and Treasury Dept. scout them all, and see what piques your interest for a career.
Many other areas of LE too, as about every dept. in the fed world has LE elements, and subdivisions.
Also, look at DoD. DOE etc. Then, there are local, state and fed regulatory agencies too, that focus on a specific slice of LE.
Anyhow, hope this is helpful to you.
Good Luck, Regards, loren