Found Property

[jamesm]

I am 25 years old who has been married for 5 years and have two children.  I have been a Military Police soldier for 5 years and was a Sergeant for the U.S. Army.  I went back to work for the security company that I worked for before I entered into the Army.  
Two weeks ago a lady came to me and turned in $150.00.  I did not turn this money in and a few days later I was asked about it.  I ended up turning the money over to my supervisor and was terminated because of it.  This is by far the worst thing that I have ever done in my life and know that if I was placed in this situation again I would not hesitate to do the right thing.  What suggestions might you have for me?  Have I ruined my chances for a career in law enforcement?

[Charlie]

jamesm--Not sure why you did not turn in the money to begin with but this could be a problematic situation for you should you apply for an LE job.    It is likely definitely have to disclose this information to the background investigator. I suspect that when they check with your previous employer, they may disclose the reason why the terminated you. If you faily to disclose the reason why you we're terminated at this job, and the B.I. finds out, you would obviously be disqualified.

* Have you ruined your chances for a career in law enforcement?

If this is the ONLY thing you've done, I would say maybe not. However, I would plan on putting together a truthful explanation about what happened with this situation. And, I would definitely express the remorse you have for making this bad decision.

I think overall it will depend on the overall circumstances surrounding this incident. And, it's probably good that you were not (I assume) prosecuted for the theft. AND, that you did give them the money in the end when asked about it. I think some time between the incident and when you decide to apply is going to be in your favor. In other words, if the incident occurred, (lets say as an example), 3-5 years prior to your application with a department, it may look better for you especially if you have been staying on the straight and narrow path since then. Time between you and the incident is a plus. BUT, without a doubt, you're going to have some explaining to do about the incident.

I am uncertain as to what else you can do otherwise to redeem yourself. Perhaps obtaining some letters of recommendation from other reputable employers, supervisors, acquiantances, etc. might help that can attest to your integrity and work ethic. Obviously the incident in question sort of gives you a black eye to your otherwise, respectable reputation.

It won't be easy but I think, if this is all you've done, have a chance especially since you turned in the money in the end.

Charlie