AboutJohn Grussing Expertise I am able to answer questions related to fire service careers, fire suppression tactics, technical rescue procedures, emergency medical services, as well as fire department management and supervision questions.
Experience I am a 19 year veteran of the Normal, IL. fire department and currently hold the rank of Captain. I am also a past member of the MABAS Div. 41 Technical Rescue Team.
Organizations Golden Key Honor Society
International Association of Firefighters
McLean County EMS communications committee
Publications Fire Engineering Magazine (Roundtable Discussions)
Education/Credentials I hold an Associates degree in Fire Science from Illinois Central College as well as a bachelor of liberal arts degree from Western Illinois University. My emphasis of study was fire and disaster response planning. In addition, I hold numerous certifications in firefighting, Hazardous Materials, Technical Rescue, and Fire Department Administration from the Illinois Fire Service Institute.
Question Can I become a firefighter after having the misdemeanor conviction? I was arrested for a felony, but it was dropped to petty theft misdemeanor in 1994. I even if it was sealed, can the Fire Department still review it? I read some of the forums saying that it is different state to state, so do you think I can move somewhere where I can be a firefighter. I currently live in Nevada.
Answer Almost all fire departments have access to sealed records. Even though it was dropped to a misdemeanor the fact that it was a theft charge will, with the vast majority of departments, prevent you from being hired. I'm not going to say it is impossible but it is highly unlikely that you will be hire by a fire department simply because there will be many other qualified applicante with clean records.
