Common Disqualifier re: Vicodin/Prescription drugs

[bjj_cop_maybe]

anyone out there would like to contribute to their agencys standards and policy regarding the use of unprescribed medication as far as a common disqualifier? I was disqualified in november because of it for LASD and was considering applying to another department since it will be 1 year since last use soon. Of course I would like as much time as possible, but I am wondering if I will be wasting my time or not, thanks for everyones input.

Info: Took vicodin about 4-5 times, its been about a year, I didnt take it to party and drink and didnt mix it with alcohol, I took it due to legitimate pain in neck/back from wrestling/jiu jitsu. Not an excuse i am aware, please let me know your insight, thank you.

[Johninaustin]

How did you come across the Vicodin? Old prescription of yours or supplied thru another person?

[bjj_cop_maybe]

it was from a friend.

[Johninaustin]

it was from a friend.

Stick a fork in you then. We prosecute folks for that here.

[bjj_cop_maybe]

I am aware it is illegal, I am asking as to how long should it be before I apply to a department due to my background, I wasnt asking whether you would prosecute me or not

[mobrien316]

I am aware it is illegal, I am asking as to how long should it be before I apply to a department due to my background, I wasnt asking whether you would prosecute me or not

I think that "stick a fork in you" implies that, regardless of how long you wait to apply elsewhere, your chances of obtaining a law enforcement job are not good.

[bjj_cop_maybe]

I think that "stick a fork in you" implies that, regardless of how long you wait to apply elsewhere, your chances of obtaining a law enforcement job are not good.

thats unfortunate to hear, I know a couple agencies have a 3 year waiting period , I know another that says 5 years. So never say never.

[mobrien316]

thats unfortunate to hear, I know a couple agencies have a 3 year waiting period , I know another that says 5 years. So never say never.

So what information are you looking for?

[bjj_cop_maybe]

other departments standards, get a general idea of the continuum and see how other departments differ.

[kels]

Call the agency you are interested in.
They should be able to let you know if you
still qualify for employment with them.

[kevman@kelleysp]

I think the stick a fork reply was uncalled for and could have been handled a little more nicely. However in most places it does disqualify you from most departments no matter what the time period is.

[mcsap]

For someone who illegally used prescription drugs and didn't get proscuted ...having been told to " stick a fork in it , you are done " sure beats the living daylights out of being arrested.

The illegal use of drugs for recreational purposes does not go along well with being a Law Enforcement applicant.

Some answers here are from REAL COPS. We can actually say things here that we cant say while working. We can also cease and desist with the sugar coating. If you cannot stand the heat in the kitchen....

[Lawson]

I think the stick a fork reply was uncalled for and could have been handled a little more nicely.

You're kidding right? Welcome to law enforcement.

I would imagine an agency might be understanding if they were yours "left over" but what was done is a felony in my parts, for you and your friend.

[troysig]

thats unfortunate to hear, I know a couple agencies have a 3 year waiting period , I know another that says 5 years. So never say never.

Remember that you are going against applicants that have never used controlled substances.

[CelicaGuy]

I think the stick a fork reply was uncalled for and could have been handled a little more nicely. However in most places it does disqualify you from most departments no matter what the time period is.

Oh no don't want to hurt their feelings, if they can't take that kind of TRUTHFULNESS they should not be going into LAW ENFORCEMENT!

My .02 on this is, if you really wanted to go into LAW enforcement you should have went to the doctor and got pain meds perscribed, most agencies around me do not allow any drug use other than MJ, unless perscribed.