I will soon be testing for numerous Police Departments and I have some concerns regarding the background investigation. I have no felonies, no misdemeanors, one infraction from over a decade ago, and a couple of traffic tickets the last one being back in 2002. The problem is that back in my early twenties I used drugs on a regular basis. I have never used heroin or cocaine, but I did use meth and marijuana. I have not taken any type of illegal substance in almost ten years. For the past 6 years I have been employed as an EMT in a 911 setting, volunteered as a mentor to kids going through foster placement, and have graduated from college. I feel that I have done everything in my power to become a better person and a good candidate for employment as a police officer. The drug issue is really bothering me though. Do I have a chance? I know that this is a frequently asked question. Any feedback would be GREATLY appreciated.
Thanks guys!
2007-03-01 15:19:41 · 6 answers · asked by gerald k 2 in Politics & Government ➔ Law Enforcement & Police
It really depends on what the agencies rules are concerning prior drug use. For some agencies the fact that you used meth (even once) is an automatic disqualifier. For others, pot is permitted as long your usage wasn't on a regular basis.
You should really find out what the policies are for the agencies you are applying to because if you lie and they find out, most agencies will automatically disqualify you right then and there -- even if your usage is "permitted" by their regulations.
They will do a background check on you. This means they will talk to friends/family/co-workers in many cases and get more names from those people. Someone you haven't seen in 10 years might be interviewed and could let slip that you used.
Better safe than sorry.
2007-03-01 15:45:34 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I have gone through this process and the best thing I can share is to just be honest about your drug use of the past. Be honest about everything you put down on your pre-background paperwork and then be honest during the background interviewing process. Even if there is some stuff you aren't sure about, being honest and not hiding anything back is the best policy.
Good luck!
2007-03-02 00:11:22 · answer #2 · answered by Cat 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
well yes it should be a concern i doubt it very seriously that would test positive on a drug test since its been 10 years since you've used - however you may run into some trouble during the polygraph (lie dector) and background checks good luck
2007-03-01 23:28:59 · answer #3 · answered by Fire Lt. 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It's 10 years ago. I don't think any traces of these prohibited drugs are still in your blood. But if you want to be sure, just go to any drug-testing outlet in your area for a private test. You're going to get the result right away.
2007-03-02 11:55:13 · answer #4 · answered by Super_Noypi 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
If you've never been arrested for drug possession way back then, then there's no way it'll come back and haunt you, is there?
2007-03-01 23:28:00 · answer #5 · answered by Kasey C 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
If it isn't documented then don;t worry about it.We all have skeletons in our closets.I wouldn't even bring your past up.
2007-03-02 05:54:46 · answer #6 · answered by one10soldier 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋