Expert: Jason Grabill - 8/16/2007

Question
I have been after a career in law enforcement for 4 years and am now 27 years old. My question relates to the following recent background experience with a particular department:

In my background, I had one incident which I broke the law and did not disclose on my background form. I know this was my fault but ended up coming completely clean about the incident with my polygraph examiner and background investigator. They advised that outside of the item itself my background was excellent and advised me although I thought it was a huge deal it was nothing to be concerned about (stupid things guys do etc.). The background investigator stated I need to lay low for awhile and reapply in a year or more time. I spoke with the agency I was going to be hired on too and they said I was banned from ever applying to local law enforcement again period because there view was once a liar always a liar. I had never disclosed that one item to anyone (family, friends etc.) and obvisouly didn't think I would run into this issue at this stage of life. In your opinion, if I let some time pass can I reapply and still be successful with other departments?

Thank you,

Troy

Answer
Troy:

 I'd say, tentatively, "Yes".  This is the problem with most departments today, a "zero defects" type of mentality.   Granted, you should have done 'full disclosure' at the outset, but you did eventually tell all.  And, in so doing, it hurt your chances.  Now, if the incident is something that would DQ you no matter what, then the problem, alas, will remain, and may not be surmountable.   Try again in a year, and see what happens.  Administrations change, policies change, and even recruiting practices change.  

Best regards,

Jason