Applying for the LAPD - Background question

[Saman5]

Hey guys,

I am applying for LAPD, and I am on step 3 of 7 which is the Personal History Statement. When I was 12 I was in a stolen car, and the police officer ended up giving us both GTA, even though the driver told the cop that I didn't know that the car was stolen. Long story short it went to court, and it got dismissed then destroyed/sealed. I went to the police station, and even they can't find the record when I give them my ID.

I was still honest about it and put what happened in the PHS. Do you think this can effect me in anyway since I wasn't convicted? I will find out in 2 months it looks like, but want to see your guys perspective on it.

Thanks,
Sam

[darkhorse6]

Did you get a chance to speak with a recruiter?

[emtguy89]

If you're completely honest about it, and if what you have told us is the truth, you won't have a problem getting hired somewhere; as for LAPD specifically I can't say. I worked with an officer who was arrested as a teenager for stealing a car, found guilty, but it was under a first offender act.

[Saman5]

Did you get a chance to speak with a recruiter?

Yes I spoke to one and he said based on my circumstances he doesn't think it should be a problem, but he said its up to the background investigator! He thinks I should be fine though! Still nervous about it!

[Saman5]

If you're completely honest about it, and if what you have told us is the truth, you won't have a problem getting hired somewhere; as for LAPD specifically I can't say. I worked with an officer who was arrested as a teenager for stealing a car, found guilty, but it was under a first offender act.

Yeah I am definitely honest about it, as I have nothing to hide, and take full responsibility for my actions! Oh okay that seems worse than mine since I wasn't found guilty! Was he hired by the police department?

I know I am a good person, and one mistake from 16 years ago should not hinder my dreams of being a police officer. I know I can make a difference in my community, and I will if chosen to move forward!

[darkhorse6]

Good luck to you.

[LA_Backgrounds]

Yes I spoke to one and he said based on my circumstances he doesn't think it should be a problem, but he said its up to the background investigator! He thinks I should be fine though! Still nervous about it!

The LAPD recruiters don't have anything to do with Backgrounds. Great folks, but they aren't well versed in the background process. You should be fine based on your explanation of the arrest. Be prepared to give a full explanation of the incident as well as any other potential criminal activity as a juvenile.

[Saman5]

The LAPD recruiters don't have anything to do with Backgrounds. Great folks, but they aren't well versed in the background process. You should be fine based on your explanation of the arrest. Be prepared to give a full explanation of the incident as well as any other potential criminal activity as a juvenile.

Thank you so much LA_Backgrounds I really appreciate it! Do you also know if I can update my PHS if it has been submitted? I just remembered about a job I had 13 years ago that just popped in my head, that I want to put in there. It didn't show up on the workday, but I am sure they will find it, and I don't want to omit any information!

[LA_Backgrounds]

You can’t edit your PHS, but you can let your BI know at the Meet & Greet Interview. The BI won’t be that concerned unless it was a job you were fired.