Military arrest - Article 15

[[e-mail]]

Hello All. I had a question about an arrest I received 5 years ago, when I first joined the military. It was on base for shoplifting. It obviously was stupid and showed no integrity. But, I has been in the military only 6 months, and since then have been decorated, promoted 3 times, reenlisted (which means I have served an honorable enlistment) and now am now 2 years from seperating after this my second enlistment or tour (8 years total service). My question is this, obviously shoplifting will hurt my chances ( I have absolutely no other criminal records) but should I refrain from trying to apply to be an officer? Or due to the crime and the time frame (5 years ago) should I just forget it and pursue something else. I have a BA degree and 2 AS degrees. And an honorable discharge is no problem, especially since I was allowed to reenlist. Any help or advice would be appreciated. Caleb.

[junior]

caleb,

are you kidding me?  don't let a shoplifting offense from 8 yrs ago keep you from doing what you want to do.  since the big heist you have obviously shown that you have matured, i.e. being promoted .  the military let you back in so that is a good thing.  if it comes up in an interview, just be prepared to explain yourself....you should have nothing to worry about.  best of luck to you !

junior  8)

[Charlie]

Caleb--I often say this to a lot of people on this forum: It depends upon WHO you make an application with and how "forgiving" they may be. I agree with Junior though. Time is on your side since it will be several years since you did the offense. Plus, your military track record should speak volumes about you as well.

Just be up front and honest about it. Fully explain the circumstances surrounding your "mistake" an how you've redeemed yourself since then. You might get a little flak about it but I think ultimately, it will depend upon the totality of the circumstances and perhaps WHAT it was you took at the time.

Most everyone has made mistakes in the past. We all have. And most agencies know they are not going to hire Christ as a police officer. I think most agencies carefully weigh each individual's qualifications and look at what they have to offer. Again, just tell it like it is. I think your chances are just as good as anyone else's. Go for it.

Good luck.

Charlie

[[e-mail]]

Junior and Charlie,

I appreciate your input. I have thought long and hard about getting out of the military and pursuing a career in LE. The only thing stopping me is this event years ago. I think I will take your advise and give it a shot. I have no problem explaining the situation. Hopefully I may get lucky enough to get picked up. Thanks guys!

[[e-mail]]

weren't you 18 when you did this? Trust me when I say this, I have yet to see a mature 18 yr old man(we've all been "18" b4 if it comes up in back grounds, tell the truth .and good luck-and stay out of TROUBLE...