If I get arrested for misdemeanor shoplifting at 17yrs, will I still be able to become a police officer?

CGIV76

It depends on the department you apply to.

Even if you have a sealed record, it doesn't mean that you have no record, and you will be asked about it when you are in the background phase of the hiring process.

gabe

yes but get a lawyer that way he can reduce the charge.

Yes - Petit Larceny is one of the charges that will still allow you to become a police officer.

MAN IN UNIFORM

YES, JUVENILE RECORDS ARE SEALED.......

Kathleen312

That will depend entirely on the department you're applying to, you do have a chance, just plan on being honest.

Valley R

Good grief, lets hope not.

Ron

In reality almost all first time shoplifters get a break and get a reduced or suspended sentence.

I work in LP and most shoplifter in your age rang dont get in much trouble the first time unless the town is strict on shoplifting. Most time pay back the store, community service or a small fine.

Dont worry about it go to court see what happens and what you actually get as a plea deal. Also let the DA and Judge know that you want to work in a PD and they will take that into consideration.

Dont worry but dont mess up again.

Todd B

It's questionable. You might be able to if you are 100% honest about the situation and the Chief or LT sees that you aren't a problem to the PD.

Then again, they may see that as you being untrustworthy and not even give you a chance.

Ashley

were u charges as a juve?

tank63

Yes because when u turn 18 your juvy record is sealed

quietflight_22

First, it doesn't matter when your court date is only the age you were when the crime is committed. But while 18 is the "adult" age, many states consider individuals have the capacity younger than that and you could be charged as an adult (i.e. the age of consent is not 18 many places anymore).

As far as being accepted into a police academy, while misdemeanors do not knock you out of applying for the program, the specific offense you were charged with will greatly influence whether you are selected. I hate to tell you but theft is one of the ones most closely scrutinized. If you want to pursue that path, be proactive about getting in touch with a local police dept. to get their advice. Most importantly, you haven't been charged yet. If you are allowed to speak with the owner of wherever you stole from, they might decide to drop the complaint which means you don't go to court and "no charges stemmed from the incident" can be the answer if ever you are asked.

Mr. Goodhi

Probably not.

Serpico7

If its still your dream, go for it. This wouldn't end your chances. But remember, there will be 10+ other guys applying with the same qualifications as you, without the misdemeanor. Who's gonna get it?

The Hammer

Yes a minor crime is not an automatic disqualification, it will depends on what else they find in your background check.

Police Explorer

I have a feeling that you still would have a good chance of becoming one of us. I say this because although you did get convicted of committing a crime which wasn't to major, a shoplifting charge for an item priced under 5$ shouldn't totally jeopardize your whole future. If you're really dedicated about becoming a cop call around to your local police department and ask them if they have an explorers program. You stay have the choice to stay there until the age of 21. After that you will go the the official police academy. I am only 16 so i have a long way to go although i will have fun doing it. YOU SHOULD LOOK INTO IT.

TURANDOT

You bet! There's many just like you already active in the force

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