mistake on application

[IPH]

Simply put I screwed up. I filled out an application and said no to all the questions like have you ever been convicted of a crime, have you ever tried this that and the other. At the time no was the correct answer until I started to put together all my information. I then realized 13 yrs ago I was at a high school party and tried marijuana. I did not enjoy it and never tried it again. So I never thought about it when I was filling out the application but now I realized I put down false information. I never intended on being deceitful, I just forgot about the entire incident. Since this application was sent in, I have also applied at other departments and have noted the usage. Now I am not sure how to explain the mistake. I have had mix opinions about this. Some people tell me to just forget about it. But I am afraid if I do, the department may find out about it because I told other departments about it. Are departments allowed to exchange the information? Also, the last thing any department wants is a dishonest person. Other people told me just answer yes and explain the usage and if the discrepancy is found then explain what happened. But I am not sure waiting for a discrepancy to be found is a good idea either.

I don’t know if I should just not go for the exam or try and explain myself. I know the worst scenario is that I am DQ’d for that department. As much as I would hate that, I would understand it. But what I don’t want is my one mistake here to affect my chances with any other departments. Most departments ask if you have ever applied for any other departments and if so, have you ever been disqualified. And some will even inquire why you were DQ’d.

Any advice you can give offer me would be much appreciated.

[ChesCopPodz]

Call ASAP and let them know. Personally speak with your background officer if you have one or to the person directly responsible for applications.

They can talk with other departments. Double edged sword of that is that if they DO talk to the other departments, and find out you omitted the marijuana usage, the department you didn't tell will probably DQ you and the departments you did tell will probably DQ you for not telling the first department.

[MP_Steve]

Yeah, give them a call and let them know that you mistakenly omitted information in the background questionnaire.

[IPH]

Thanks for the advice.

[phantasm]

In NY a violation posession of MJ would not be a crime, but a posession. Crime would be Misd or felony. What would make MJ a crime in NY is
a) burning in public
b) in public view
c) 25 grams or more (or is it more than 25 grams).

[IPH]

Sorry, I should have clarified. I answered no in the section of the application that asks have you ever been convicted of a crime, have you or are you currently using certain drugs, has your license been suspended/revoke, etc.