Background ?

[tmeon]

Is there anyway to find out if your background has been started, I took a poly exam over 4 weeks ago and have not heard anything from the department yet. I told my current employer that I was in the process and that they maybe getting contacted shortly, but since it has been 3 weeks since I told them, they are asking me what is going on. And I can't tell them anything, cause I don't know.

Also, How long does a complete background take to complete?

Thanks
Tmeon

[tmeon]

Can anyone tell me what first step of a background investigation is????

[chri360936]

It varies from department to department. I've been contacted by an investigator first and I've been asked to go to a polygraph to start the process.

[Mike Romeo]

My background investigator contacted me, not the other way around. He had me gather up all kinds of stuff like my HS diploma and transcripts, college transcripts, birth certificate, etc. I had to bring that along with me for my initial interview and polygraph/finger printing.

I assume my investigation started as soon as I walked out the door that day and that was two months ago. My BI called to tell me that my package was completed just yesterday and it's making it's way up the chain to the Chief.

Long story short, I've gotten the best results from trying not to worry about it. I'm not the only person the department is investiating and things don't move quickly. Patience is the key.

[md123]

Mine took months, and questions regarding when this or that would happen have been a mystery throughout the process. You just have to get used to it.

[not5150]

In some departments (prob most actually) they start doing a little background check just before you arrive for the interview.

Not unheard of for people being hooked up just as they step into the station.

One guy had warrants and wanted to do a ride-along. The ride-along officer acted normal and when they got to the car, the officer said, "Before we start the shift, all Officers have to check if their handcuffs work. So turn around and lets see if they work on you."

DOH!!!

[Mike Romeo]

In some departments (prob most actually) they start doing a little background check just before you arrive for the interview.

I saw a police car parked near my house on two separate occasions, for a long time, before my background ever started.

However, they could've been there for any number of reasons.

[tmeon]

Hey thanks guys, I just got the call from my BI, wants to me today.