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Question
Hey, This is my question I was in the air force for 1 year and 9 months. I've been to Iraq, Saudi, etc. I was security forces a cop. When I got back from Iraq I went home for a 1 week. When I came back my grandma died. I asked to get leave I was denied. I went on a 9 day AWOL, biggest mistake of my life. I received an general under honorable discharge. that was 2 years ago I was 19 now I'm 21. I go to school and enlisted in the Army National guard. I have applied for a CO position and passed everything, just waiting to get word. Will this discharge affect me applying at bigger departments such as LA, NY, St. Louis. I have good driving record, Good Credit, Never touched Drugs. This is my dream. If not state or city departments what about Federal. Thanx sorry about address had it since I left the AF
Josh:
Sounds like you have made amends on this mistake, and if you've been accepted back into military service, that is even better. I think you should apply, be prepared to do some explaining, in detail, but if this is the only issue in your background, I don't forsee a major problem. You wouldn't be considered "Very well qualified" but you are still competitive in the field. Give it a shot.
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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