About to leave military, how employable am I for an LE position......

[jariggs]

I'm about to leave the military, and I have a few questions about my credentials.

I've served 8 years in the USAF working in Security Forces. Also, during this time I finished by Bachelors in Criminal Justice Administration with a 3.1 GPA.

I have a clean criminal record, no misdemeanors or felonies. I've had a few very minor traffic tickets a couple years back, but it's been long enough that I now have ZERO points on my driving record.

I'm mainly interested in working as a city police officer with a larger agency.

Any help you can offer is appreciated. I've never competed for an LE job in the civilian sector and just wondered how I compare to other applicants.

[mcsap]

You sound like an EXCELLENT candidate to be hired.

4 yr degree in CJ w/ a 3.1 GPA

Military Police background.

You SHOULD qualify for veterans preference points being added to your score.

CLEAN background. A few old tickets are NOT a big deal. (who didn't get a ticket?)

Start applying NOW. www.911jobs, Sunday newspapers, inquire at your local PD etc. As long as you can test half decent and are in some kind of shape, you should do fine. Having both military and college certainly gives you an edge.

Get busy !

[Switchback]

Good candidate for the feds, too.

[JudgeDredd]

As far as feds go, you should qualify for at least a GS 7(USSS, DEA, BATF or uniform position) plus step. With a 3.1, you should qual for an outstanding scholar placement as well. Just make sure you have a copy of your DD214 no matter what agency you apply for. You can get a copy at NARA, 9700 Page Ave, Overland MO. They will also mail you a copy. Also, check with your local VA office employment counsler <sp>. We have a cop with FPS who got on that way. You can also check the federal website at: http://www.usajobs.opm.gov Good luck.

[mcsap]

Sounds like you have a lot of possibilities. Start gathering info and apply, apply , apply.

[jariggs]

So the tickets I mentioned won't hurt me?

They were 2 -2.5 years ago. Two were for speeding (10 mph over and 5 mph over). Also 1 for no turn signal.

Those were my first tickets in 8 years! As I mentioned, the points are off, but I'll of course still tell the BI about them.

Thanks for the feedback so far, it's been helpful.

[cecilVA]

So the tickets I mentioned won't hurt me?

They were 2 -2.5 years ago. Two were for speeding (10 mph over and 5 mph over). Also 1 for no turn signal.

Those were my first tickets in 8 years! As I mentioned, the points are off, but I'll of course still tell the BI about them.

Thanks for the feedback so far, it's been helpful.

Nope I wouldn't sweat it, most departments aren't looking for absolute saints. Lots of speeding tickets in a year may raise a couple flags, but not in your situation. You have good qualifications, you shouldn't have a problem getting hired. But its never a guarantee, lots of people apply for LE jobs.

[mcsap]

VERY minor tickets. 5 and 10 mph over the limit ? No turn signal ? You don't qualify as Jesse James !

We look at traffic vio's but what would get our attention would be Reckless Driving, Suspended license, DUI, 25 mph over the limit, Racing on the highway, Hit and Run, Fleeing from the police.

Most apps ask for any traffic tickets in the last 3 years so be sure to include them but do NOT be concerned that they will in ANY way DQ you.

Your education and qualifications STILL put you head and shoulders above most others. Add to that being reasonably good shape ( work on it if you aren't) and you will be a SOUGHT after commodity.

[jariggs]

I appreciate the responses. I was a little concerned about the traffic violations, but I feel much better after getting your opinions. This is a very helpful forum.

[cecilVA]

Its probably already been said but I'll say it again. DO NOT LIE ABOUT ANYTHING. Lying about anything will make even the most perfect candidate get DQ'ed, no matter how small the lie.

[mcsap]

I accept portraits of my favorite presidents as a "token" donation J/K !!!

[jariggs]

Its probably already been said but I'll say it again. DO NOT LIE ABOUT ANYTHING. Lying about anything will make even the most perfect candidate get DQ'ed, no matter how small the lie.

I agree, I've heard of many people being DQ'ed this way. It seems as though it's usually over things that would never have DQ'ed them in the first place.

Thanks again guys for the all the help.

[sgtbear111]

here are a couple to look at -

http://www.cjtc.state.wa.us/
Washington State Cirminal Jusice Training Commisssion

http://www.wsp.wa.gov
Washington State Patrol
360-438-5800