LAPD Polygraph Experience

[RoninWasteland]

I recently had my polygraph exam with the LAPD and do not think it fared well.

The exam started with a pre-test interview where I was told what questions would be asked and given an opportunity to disclose information that would effect the test. The test itself was a series of about 12 questions asked three times.

By the end of the exam, I was told that I had "failed" two questions. I was a little confused since the examiner did not say that I failed the test, but that I failed two questions. The two questions were about domestic abuse and "acting out based on personal biases." Now I know in my own mind that I have never acted out on either of these issues and was telling the entire truth. The examiner came in after the test and said that she really believed I was a good candidate and wanted to make this work for me, but in order to do so, she would need full disclosure. She asked if there was any reason I could think of why I would react to those questions. I reiterated that I have never struck, pushed, pulled, thrown or otherwise aggressively touched a significant other. The only thing I could think of was that I may have felt some guilt about arguments that escalated to the point of slamming some doors or throwing a book or set of keys against the wall. But that was a far cry from actually hitting someone. As for the racial question, I could only say that perhaps I felt self-conscious about how other people may judge my own race as a whole based on my actions. I certainly have never been guilty of bearing ill will against someone solely because of their race, religion or anything else.

At this point, I am fairly certain I failed, mostly based on the fact that I apparently "failed" those two questions. I'm still not sure what that means...if I fail those questions did I fail the test? If so, then tell me I failed!! In either case, I feel the process was entirely bogus.

I am curious if anyone else has had a similar experience and still managed to pass the exam? If not, what recourse do I have? Is there an appeals process or do I basically have to wait a year to retake the exam?

[CURIOUS G]

If they say that you failed the exam, appeal the decision. This has happened to a lot of candidates that apply with their department, so don't give up. The gave me the exam 3 times and I did finally pass the final polygraph. They accused me of employing countermeasures to pass the exam, it was just crazy. I was disqualified for other reasons, and I've now paid my way through an academy as a pre-service cadet. Call Phyllis Lynes immediately and contest the exam that you took. (213) 847-9717 Don't wait until the last minute, take action now. There's a lot of other agencies out there, start applying with other departments.

[BigGerman]

As long as you did not admit to something in the post interview, you most likely passed. I know that you feel bad after being told you had problems with certain questions, but I have heard of alot of people getting that same story and passing. Poly's are just no fun no matter what.

[RoninWasteland]

Curious G, they did not say I failed the test, only that I "failed two questions" on the test. As far as I know, they are one in the same.

So then, should I appeal the decision before I have received any formal notice that I failed? I would not want to appeal and raise a stink if, in fact as BigGerman points out, it was all a ruse and I may pass after all.

[BigGerman]

I was giving you this info based on my own experience. Went through the same thing......and passed:D

[RoninWasteland]

It's good to hear that I'm not in this boat alone!

[CURIOUS G]

Keep your fingers crossed, and I wish you luck in the process. I was told that I failed one question, and later received a letter stating that I was unsuccessful. Be patient, and wait to see the outcome. I hope that it does work out for you...

[RoninWasteland]

Thanks for your support. I will let you know how it goes.

[RoninWasteland]

I just received a letter stating that I failed the LAPD polygraph. Needless to say, I am disappointed, but I have already begun the process requesting a re-test. I left a message for my case manager and sent a certified letter to Phyllis Lynes at Personnel earlier this week.

As I know in my heart that I did not lie about anything, was noticeably nervous about the experience and feeling nauseous about the whole thing, I am hoping they will grant my appeal.

I will keep you apprised.

[txinvestigator1]

Did you disclose to the operator that you threw keys and a book against a wall?

[RoninWasteland]

txinvestigator...yes, i explained in the pre-test interview that the worst any arguments had ever gotten was to the point where i maybe threw some small inanimate object across the room, like a book or set of keys. in retrospect, i feel like that i should not have even said that much as it was just fodder for the examiner to try and exploit. i feel bad enough that any argument would even get to that point, but it's not even in the same ballpark as physical abuse.

[txinvestigator1]

My concern was that you did NOT tell the examiner, and it read on the test. By all means, appeal

[nunzio]

Ronin, I feel for you. I too went through a similar situation, and I'm sad to say that I was disqualified. It has been several months since my polygraph, and I know for a fact that I will NEVER get over the whole situation of being called a liar when I know I was telling the truth. It's very hurtful to have your integrity and good character questioned over a result that is false. Good luck.

[danah]

RW- so if you get a retest what will you do differently? or will you just take it again and hope it works out?

[RoninWasteland]

If I am granted a retest, I am not sure what I can do differently. If anything, I will make sure that I feel 100% going into the exam, unlike the last time where my nervousness was creating physical side effects. Other than that, I will just try to keep my mind focused and answer truthfully again.

Nunzio, are you in the process with any other agencies? If so, where do you stand with them?

The thing that upsets me the most is knowing that I have to go through this ordeal with every other agency I am applying to...