Will this stop me from a career in law enforcement?

[barnett]

When I was in high school 10th grade around 16 I brought an iPod from a kid at school I considered a friend it turns out it was stolen when it was found in my possession the school officer took me to the principle I cooperated and explained that I didn't steal it and told them what happened. I returned it and wasn't arrested or suspended or anything they understood I did not take it. Well a few months after that I got a letter that the kids parents were pressing charges we took it to court because I was charged with grand theft and dealing in stolen property. Long story short my parents didn't have the money to continue to fight it in court so I did 20 hours community service and a booklet on stealing. The charges were dropped I wasn't convicted of either one I'm not a felon I wasn't even finger printed or anything. My question is can I become a corrections officer and eventually a cop this is what I want with my life and I would hate for this to ruin my life please help... Should I get it sealed or expunged

[marlan43]

They might not let you depends on if it happens again. More they likely you can still get a job in law enforcement. Dog the bounty hunter has did worse they you have and he works for the law so yea you can get a job in law enforcement. Good luck. :)

[burt]

No, it won't be a problem. They look at crimes committed while you're an adult, not juvenile offenses. Believe me, if they considered what you did as a kid, there would be a lot fewer cops around.

And Dog the Bounty Hunter isn't anything close to being a cop.

[dallen47]

Complicated story, but a simple answer. Clearly you were not convicted of any offence so you have no criminal record, even as a juvenile. If you apply to the police or corrections you will be asked if you have any criminal convictions as an adult ... the answer (hopefully by that time) is "No". They will still check that out, but will find nothing. They won't ask about a juvenile record as that is not something they are allowed to ask about. Even if they did find out, it would only say you were (possibly) charged, not convicted. Your explanation is a bit confusing, but I believe you never were actually charged with anything. OK??

[brenn15]

No. Getting law enforcement officer jobs is becoming more and more competitive. Any red flags can hurt your chances of getting law enforcement officer jobs. However, what you wrote wont' prevent you from ever becoming a correctional officer or police officer. Make sure that you list this on law enforcement officer job applications when and where appropriate, and explain the circumstances. When law enforcement agencies are hiring, they usually have many qualified applicants for a relatively small number of open positions. Do whatever you can to make yourself the best candidate that you can. If possible, get a college degree if you don't have one. Getting a college degree is one of the best things that you can do if you want to become a law enforcement officer. Don't do anything illegal. Maintain a good reputation. Keep a good driving record. Don't get bad credit. Improve all of your communication skills as much as possible. Practice to improve your observation and memory skills, and become as physically fit. Best of luck!