I got a DUI approximately six months ago with a BAC of 0.10. Will this DUI prevent me from becoming a cop?

Posted by on . 9 comments.

I have an honorable military backround with 4 years in the U.S. Marine Corps. How much will this DUI affect my chances and what steps can I take to still become a law enforcement officer?


Facebook comments:

Comments

  1. Little Z says:
    August 31, 2010 at 8:55 am

    In most states, what ruins your chances of being a LEO usually has to deal with violence, say an assualt or DV charge. Having a DUI might be frowned upon by the department you are interested in, but it is highly doubtful to be the reason they do not allow you to join. A buddy of mine, for some dumb reason got himself 2 DUI’s right before he went to the academy, in the state of Ohio, it did not affect him. I would contact depending on your location and where you are wanting to work, an Officer that deals clearly with Human Resources and just ask. Be honest, do not let them find out by digging around. Good luck, and if you need anything just hit me up.

  2. Patrick G says:
    August 31, 2010 at 8:55 am

    A law enforcement officer that does not obey the law????

    Of course it will affect your chances. Military time or not.

  3. harleydartez says:
    August 31, 2010 at 8:55 am

    if its your first you might call an attorney about trying to get your record expunged but my brother was going to be a state trooper and they called people that lived in the same neighborhood as us when we were kids so if its state they are going to check everything if its local try getting a job in the jail first good luck

  4. Officer Jeff says:
    August 31, 2010 at 8:55 am

    This will affect you from being hired as a police officer.

    Your background will be investigated, and this will show up. Most departments will probably not hire you for years, if ever for your DUI.

  5. bankster says:
    August 31, 2010 at 8:55 am

    It will slow you down for years to come, but if it is what you want to do, don’t give up on it. Depending on where you are depends on how long. You’ll have to be very patient but it will not keep you from becoming an officer of the law. It makes it harder but if you show interest and continue to follow your dream, one DUI is not going to keep you from doing it. Just don’t get another one and talk to some local officers to find out where you stand.

  6. Mr. Lee2332s Universe says:
    August 31, 2010 at 8:55 am

    it depends on where your going to apply and how bad they need officers it will affect your chances but but not ruin them you will have to write a letter explaining the situation and that will get reviewed in front of a board they will send officers to talk to your family and friends to find out what kind of person you are there are a few officers with misdemeanor’s but very rare the best way to to get it expunged off your record

  7. SHADOW says:
    August 31, 2010 at 8:55 am

    you BAC sounds low, so that is good that it wasn’t aggravated, it depends on the department, you may need to get hired where you can then transfer sometime later. Either that or wait another year or so to distance yourself from the charge. You may be able to get it expunged but I don’t know anything other than what I have read on that. From what I just read you would be able to answer no and you would also have a good chance because of it being a first offense and maybe your military background would help in the process. good luck!

  8. deckskier says:
    August 31, 2010 at 8:55 am

    You will have to show that you are dealing with your problem. Treatment, support groups. This is something you need to do regardless of your future career. You need help!

  9. taylor.haley@rocketmail.com says:
    August 31, 2010 at 8:55 am

    It does effect your chances greatly. I wouldn’t count on becoming a cop, however, it all depends on how you explain your actions during the oral board. If you take full responsibility and show your regret and, basically, your stupidity, you may have a chance. It’s all about your integrity.

Leave a Reply