Can i become a police officer if...?

by **eilis** » Tue Dec 20, 2011 6:24 am

Since i was 16 or so i have thought about getting into law enforcement and for the past few years (im 22 now) i have been sure that that is what i want to do. unfortunately i have had a history of depression and alcohol abuse which i actually went to a rehab hospital for...twice. i have also smoked weed on numerous occasions and was actually fired from a job for it when i was 18. i was in school pursuing a law enforcement degree but have changed majors due to the fact that im not even sure i will be able to qualify for any jobs in the field (due to mental/medical history). i haven't ever been cited for a drug or alcohol violation but i do have a misdemeanor for damage to property but other than that nothing...not even a traffic ticket on record. what id like to know is whether or not these things will prevent me from being hired. your advice/input would be much appreciated. thanks

by **wattekinson86** » Tue Dec 20, 2011 6:26 am

Your chances of getting hired anytime soon probably not good. Your "mental/medical history" and past drug use and employment history will raise red flags. Getting police officer jobs is becoming more and more competitive. Police departments usually have many qualified applicants for a relatively few openings when they hire. Departments have the luxury of being very selective about who they hire. As time passes, your chances of getting hired might improve. Many people would suggest not choosing law enforcement or criminal justice as a major regardless of their past. In your case, this is definitely good advice. There are many good majors for police officer and people that want to become police officers that would also give you something to fall back on if necessary. Accounting, communications, computer science, a foreign language, English, and psychology are some examples. Whatever major you choose, get the highest grade point average that you can. Get at least a 4 year degree. Consider getting an advanced degree.

by **marq** » Tue Dec 20, 2011 6:30 am

Well where i am from as long as you have not smoke weed or abuse alcohol in 3 years you be ok,But the misdemeanor is going to hurt you :/ sorry but most depts the min they see that they wont even pull you to see.Best thing to do in this case is calling them or going to what ever the dept you may wont to join and go talk to the recruiter and also don't try big depts big depts seem to have to high of a Standard.

Best of luck!

by **jan46** » Tue Dec 20, 2011 6:39 am

Join as a Special Constable firstly and then you could go in that way, or go to university and do a foundation degree in policing, but yes you should be able to join as you seem truthful and that is a quality they look for.

by **ruddy** » Tue Dec 20, 2011 6:41 am

Hey, you are just what the police need as a recruit, a drunk pot head that cannot finish a degree. You will fit in well with them.

by **vanaken25** » Tue Dec 20, 2011 6:48 am

Hey, you are just what the police need as a recruit, a drunk pot head that cannot finish a degree. You will fit in well with them.

No you can't be an officer.

by **curney13** » Tue Dec 20, 2011 6:52 am

Hey, you are just what the police need as a recruit, a drunk pot head that cannot finish a degree. You will fit in well with them.

No you can't be an officer.

sorry it will never happen ....

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