Can you become a police officer with a record of possession?

[darrell]

Long story short, I took the fall for a "controlled substance" that wasn't mine in high school, to keep others from getting trouble. Since it wasn't mine, I'm not sure what the substance was or if the record just says controlled substance. I was told later after I went to court it was cocaine so the charge may say that. Anyway, I've seen my record and it was sealed because I did DEJ where after a year of probation and any drug tests, community service that my probation officer instructed me to do, my record would be sealed. I did everything fine and I've never even done cocaine. My question is, could I become a police officer with this? I've never been in trouble with the law for anything else but this. No tickets even. I'm 20 and turning 21 in May and I'd "heard" from a family friend who said back when he went to the academy he knew someone who was kicked out of the Marines for drugs and had two convictions of drugs and was still able to become an officer. Is this true? He said it could vary by county to county based on their drug tolerance policy. But because mine isn't simply marijuana, could that affect me? Thanks.

[veto]

Even though your juvenile record is 'sealed' a hiring law enforcement agency will be allowed to view the record.

With a possession of cocaine conviction on your record, you will not be considered for employment by law enforcement.

- Stuart

[crosbey]

Some stations will accept you and others will not even consider you. Just tell the truth on the tests. I would like to become a police officer too, but I have done a good share of drugs... good luck

[chatima]

the sad part of this is that you seem to be serious about it....you will find it difficult even getting a simple retail job with that record...

[oz]

Nope.

Hope you learned the lesson that "Taking the fall" can ruin your life. by the way, how are they doing?

[yehudi]

Yes, it will absolutely affect you.

A conviction of possession of "hard drugs" will probably keep you out of Law Enforcement.

Saying now that it "wasn't yours" and "you were trying to keep friends out of trouble" will not help.

You admitted in court that you possessed them, and that's all that matters.

I am sure you'll find a career that you love, but it won't be in Law Enforcement.

EDIT-

If you don't see a difference between what the Police can see and what a Retail Store can see then I don't know what to tell you. I promise the police can find that conviction and will look at not just the conviction record, but the ENTIRE POLICE REPORT OF THE INCIDENT if you apply.