Can I be a cop?

[John2020]

I had a DUI in 1999 and a petty theft in April of 2002. I also have a juvinile record and a bad driving record. I am in the process of expunging everything to join the LAPD. What are my chances of becoming a cop in LA?

[FPS207]

John2020,

I would think like most P.D.'s, an amount of time would have to pass between infractions such as the ones you listed. The DUI in 1999 and petty theft in 2002? You can start applying, but being that I have been a cop for ten years, and had difficulty trying to get hired because I had three speeding tickets. You do the math.

[Toeknee112]

Remember that there are hundreds of other applicants that don't have the excess baggage that you do...

[marine19860222]

Remember that there are hundreds of other applicants that don't have the excess baggage that you do...

But the past doesnt always matter, say he were to be hired and everything he may be a pretty damn good cop and i would think he would be. With a criminal history cops have a better understanding of how criminals think. Its just my opinion

[cecilVA]

LAPD is VERY picky so you are probably going to have some issues with that.

[cecilVA]

But the past doesnt always matter, say he were to be hired and everything he may be a pretty damn good cop and i would think he would be. With a criminal history cops have a better understanding of how criminals think. Its just my opinion

I understand that is your opinion but it is pretty inaccurate. The past does matter, especially for a dept like LAPD who is under a huge microscope right now. Why do you think EVERY department does a background check? And have a criminal history has nothing to do with understanding criminals better, it has to do with the risk of committing crime while on the force. So mobsters would make great cops because they are such good criminals?

[Toeknee112]

But the past doesnt always matter, say he were to be hired and everything he may be a pretty damn good cop and i would think he would be. With a criminal history cops have a better understanding of how criminals think. Its just my opinion

Your entitled to your opinion but I disgree. As I've mentioned in another post a police officer has a tremendous responsibility and anyone hiring a police officer needs to make sure that the applicant is as squared away as possible.

[marine19860222]

I understand that is your opinion but it is pretty inaccurate. The past does matter, especially for a dept like LAPD who is under a huge microscope right now. Why do you think EVERY department does a background check? And have a criminal history has nothing to do with understanding criminals better, it has to do with the risk of committing crime while on the force. So mobsters would make great cops because they are such good criminals?

Ya now i understand what you are saying but you know like in the movie blue streak, thats where i thought that it would be good to have that because cops know criminal pattern.

[sgtbear111]

If you were ever convicted of a felony you'd best make other plans. If it is all misdemeanor history, you will still have trouble with a DUI and recent theft conviction. If you are early 20's, if eligible, you might consider enlisting in the Armed Forces. After a 4 year hitch, with no more problems, try again. You may find the service to your liking and re-enist.

[cecilVA]

Ya now i understand what you are saying but you know like in the movie blue streak, thats where i thought that it would be good to have that because cops know criminal pattern.

Heres a tip, stop watching movies to get a better idea of law enforcement.

[911]

cecilVA is right, LAPD are VERY particular about who they hire. You might consider looking into other CA depts as there are some awesome PD's there.

[mcsap]

If what you said Marine was true, then all of the criminals who wanted to be cops would be the most lilkely to get hired ??!!

I can think JUST LIKE the bad guys WITHOUT being one of them.

[SORMJ]

In Toronto there is no way you would get hired with a DUI charge no matter how old it is. They have so many people applying and so few spaces they can have their pick of the litter.