Law Enforcement

**zulu** · 02-21-2009, 11:12 AM

I need some advice in trying to pursue a career in law enforcement. I was charged with petty theft a month after my 18th birthday in California. The charge was later dropped to an infraction and I am now 20. I am in college now about to be a sophomore and wondering if I should continue with a major in criminal justice, in the case that my infraction might not let me in the force. I do intend to get a bachelors in criminal justice but I was wondering if this infraction would hinder my goal in being a peace officer. Or if it would hurt me at all, in the case that I could even get a job as a peace officer when I turn 21?

**LawResearcherMissy** · 03-01-2009, 07:16 AM

Policies vary by jurisdiction, but generally speaking, an infraction is not enough to keep you out of a career in law enforcement.

Expect to be grilled about the charge, regardless, and be prepared to show contrition.

**zulu** · 03-01-2009, 07:16 PM

Thanks, but in any case they would be able to pull it up without me mentioning it at all right?

**LawResearcherMissy** · 03-01-2009, 07:22 PM

Yup. It's there for LE to see, always.

**zulu** · 03-01-2009, 09:14 PM

Thank you again for you're research. I appreciate it. By the way, if I know someone that is driving without a license or insurance what would I have to say to telephone operator for them to pull the person over that doesn't have their legal documents to drive?