Expert: Dick Rogers - 12/4/2006

Question
My husband really wants to become a state patrol/ game warden, but we got into an arguement once and the police were called. He didn't hit me and I didn't want him to go to jail, I just wanted things to cool off. But they charged him for menacing and he might be convicted. Now I feel really bad because im thinking he might not ever be able to have the career he wants. Ive looked around and I cant really get a straight answer to my question which is if he gets convicted for menacing, is it still possible for him to become a game warden?

thanks
Ashley

Answer
Well, Ashley, presumably you are required for any trial that comes up regarding his charge...perhaps you can discuss your view of what occurred before it goes to trial and the DA may decide not to pursue the case.  At any rate, if it appears you may be a hostile witness, they may decide not to try the case.  If they do, and if the worst happens and he is convicted, you can always appeal to the people delaing with applications for the position he is seeking and try to convince them the thing was blown way out of proportion and that you support you husband one hundred percent.  The fact there was no violence involved mitigates the whole thing and it should be part of your argument.  My view of situations like this is "What is the long term damage that might occur if we (the police) arrest him/her." What I'm getting at is that if he didn't hit you it would appear that it was nothing more than a domestic dispute....unfortunately, the police now have considerble discretinary means at their disposal...sometimes they go overboard in using this discretionary power...not necessarily the case here bu it seems as though it is a possibility.  Keep backing up your husband and let's hope this works itself out.  Good luck!