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Question
My name is James and I am 27 years old. I have a strong desire to become a police officer and I am going through the application process now. Something that concerns me a great deal is the fact the I was charged with theft when I was 19 years old. I completed a PTI program (first time offenders) and I was never convicted of the charge. I was able to have that charge expunged from my record but I know the question will come up if I have ever been convicted of any crime. I would like to be perfectly honest as I realized I made the mistake but I don't want to prevent myself from getting the job. Will my background check reveal that I had a charge expunged and do I need to check that I was convicted of a crime. Any information you can provide me with is greatly appreciated as I am determined to make a career in law enforcement if possible. Do you think this will prevent me from ever becoming a cop?
Thank you!"
James:
In situations like this, it's really a judgement call. I would probably put it on my background, that you were charged, completed PTI, and your record is expunged. Be prepared to answer in depth questioning on it, but it's better to be up front ahead of time instead of having it come out while you are in the academy (and get fired) or something along those lines.
I don't think it will prevent your employment, as long as you are honest about it, it was a one time occurance, and you've got no other background issues.
Jason
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| Rating(1-10) | Knowledgeability = 10 | Clarity of Response = 10 | Politeness = 10 |
| Comment | Jason, Thank you very much for your response and words of encouragement. | ||
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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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