Top Police Background Check Disqualifiers

When someone chooses to pursue a career in law enforcement, they choose to become a protector and guardian of their community. As such, they need to be ready to uphold that community’s laws and standards, hopefully becoming a symbol of order, integrity, and trust. Therefore, it’s best to already possess all those qualities in abundance. As such, police departments throughout the nation rely on background checks to find the best of the best and ensure they select officers who are capable of performing their duties with honor. Here are the top police background check disqualifiers to keep in mind when applying to be a cop.

Why Are Background Checks Necessary?

Many jobs come with a required background check, and the police force is no exception. Police officers are under extra scrutiny as well, and background checks help ensure only qualified candidates who are above reproach are selected. The following red flags can disqualify a candidate, reducing risk and liability for the department and ensuring the streets are safer for all.

Criminal Record

This one seems obvious. A police officer shouldn’t be a criminal or have a record of criminal behavior. In most forces, felony convictions, records of domestic violence, and serious misdemeanors can keep a person from becoming a police officer. Murder, rape, robbery, drug trafficking, and other crimes are immediate disqualifications and may even reveal criminal ties. It doesn’t matter if time was served or it happened long ago—if a felony shows up in a background check, it’s a huge red flag for a potential cop.

Substance Abuse

Past and current usage of controlled substances is another disqualification, no matter how long ago it happened. Law enforcement agencies, of course, pursue criminals in the illegal drug trade. Drug use is not only illegal and unhealthy it also suggests that a police officer could be easily compromised. While substance abuse should be treated as a medical and addiction issue, it is an immediate disqualifier for most police forces. Naturally, the discovery of illegal drug use may require further inquiries by law enforcement.

Poor Credit Score

This might seem irrelevant to a career in law enforcement, but it isn’t. While bankruptcy and other financial difficulties due to medical and other serious and costly issues may not disqualify a person from being a police officer, financial issues may suggest a lack of responsibility, management skills, and good judgment. More seriously, a police officer in financial trouble is more likely to be approached by criminals with bribes and other financial enticements. If the debt was acquired through gambling or other questionable or illicit means, that could lead to further questions about the potential officer’s sense of duty, ethics, and legality.

Employment History

Every job requires a review of a candidate’s former jobs, and policing is no exception. While certain positions, such as a fast-food worker or delivery person, might not be relevant to police work, a job history filled with terminations, too-frequent job changes, disciplinary issues, and conflicts with other employees and management is a tremendous red flag. Police officers need to work with superiors, fellow officers, and the local government. A history of trouble with previous employers suggests potential future issues with following the rules and laws and maintaining a professional approach to policing. Employment gaps also suggest an inability to hold down a job and work with others.

Falsified Education and Certifications

Most law enforcement agencies require candidates to have a high school diploma or GED at the least, though some positions may require college-level and similar coursework. Naturally, providing fake information about one’s educational background is a huge red flag, while lacking a necessary diploma, degree, or certain certifications ensures disqualification. It’s best to be honest and prepared because previously attended schools will provide corroborating information about education.

Bad Driving Record

Police officers are often called upon to drive vehicles, whether motorcycles, patrol cars, or other means of conveyance. A bad driving record filled with moving violations and DUIs is a disqualification since it reveals a serious disregard for the law and the public’s safety.

Poor Military Record

Switching from a military to a civilian career as a police officer isn’t unexpected, and an admirable record with the armed forces is a definite plus. Conversely, a record revealing a dishonorable discharge, disciplinary actions, time in the brig, or other questionable activities in the service can disqualify a candidate. Police departments will comb through a candidate’s military record, looking for the above, with a focus on insubordination, misconduct, violence, substance abuse, and other disqualifiers.

Bad Social Media Behavior

People tend to put their lives on display through social media. Indiscriminately posting controversial statements, admissions of illegal activities, use of discriminatory language, threats, and generally offensive content can put a damper on the possibility of employment with the police department. It also shows a lack of respect for others, the community, and those who the police officer may be called upon to protect. Openly associating online with groups known to engage in criminal activity will also raise red flags about the potential officer’s worthiness to wear a badge.

Negative Word of Mouth

When someone provides references, it’s expected that the references will provide positive reviews of the candidate. References and comments from those who have worked or associated with the candidate can carry their own red flags through negative feedback about the candidate’s character, behavior, and integrity.

Psychological Evaluation

Many law enforcement agencies require candidates to go through the step of taking a psychological evaluation. While not a background check per se, it is a look into the individual’s character and outward behavior. Evaluators look for signs of anything that can impair an officer’s ability to enforce the law.

Those are the top police background check disqualifiers. Understanding what is expected from individuals seeking a role in law enforcement can help a candidate prepare for the process. If you’re seeking professional background screeners for your department, company, or other facility, contact us for a consultation.