Does the LAPD have set Disqaulification criteria

[CadillacBill]

On the LAPD's official website they list a lot of general disqualifying categories, like "responsible decisions regarding drugs and alcohol" but it isn't very specific. Do the background investigators have set guidelines, such as no MJ in last 5 years, or no more than 1 speeding ticket. Or is it kind of up to their gut feeling?

I ask, b/c I'm considering applying. I have a degree, good health and fitness, and excellent credit and job references, but some arrests during my college days. I'm confident I would make a good officer, however, but i realize you have to make others confident and get past the DQ'ing.

Anyone have a list of specific DQ criteria, and also what departments tend to be more lenient in this regard?

(btw, I tried to get on policebackground.net to ask, but there's something wrong with their registration process, re: a humanizer question)

[ExSDSO]

It really depends what you were arrested for, why and how long ago? The best you could do is apply where ever youd like and just tell the BI everything and let them make the decession.

They also look at your life and your accomplishments after the fact. Good luck brother!

[yournicked!]

if you have a speeding ticket within the past year, or 5 with 5 years...its a no go!

i have a perfect background, but had a speeding ticket within a year...they are delaying me for 360 days so that i go a year with no tickets!

[EricDel]

How many speeding tickets did you have? I find it hard to believe if you only had one they would delay you.

[ExSDSO]

if you have a speeding ticket within the past year, or 5 with 5 years...its a no go!

i have a perfect background, but had a speeding ticket within a year...they are delaying me for 360 days so that i go a year with no tickets!

So actually your background isn't perfect because you have a speeding ticket! HA

No one has a perfect background, your background may be perfect for LAPD....it could be the total opposite for another agency like phoenix or mesa az police departments.

[08duramax]

They don't want any tickets within 1 year of applying.

[breezygirl]

a humanizer question?
...the answer to it is "ken"


:)

[IronBruin]

I tried to get on policebackground.net to ask, but there's something wrong with their registration process, re: a humanizer question)

There is an entire section called "Registration Answer".........

[CadillacBill]

There is an entire section called "Registration Answer".........

There's no form to enter "ken". The question does not appear on the page, but you're prompted to answer it when you register -- likely a site error. Try to register and you'll see what I mean.

[yournicked!]

EricDel......one ticket within a year is a delay for L.A.P.D. and anymore than 5 in 5 years is also a delay. I've only had 3...therefore the later portion is NOT relevant....but i have had one within the year...hence why i got a letter saying i was a great candidate, and they don't want me to give up, but instead, re apply once i go a year with no tickets! You think there's more to read into this, THERE ISN'T..they didn't get to run a full background on me to find anything out! They quite simply stopped me for that traffic ticket! Remember L.A.P.D has applicants left right and center....they can be picky!

EXSDSO..saying "HA"....very mature!! But in response to your question, your right, some agencies differ. for instance, S.M.P.D looked over my application and selected me to do further testing with them. Unlike the L.A.P.D they look at the whole package as opposed to simple little dq's.

And once I'm a u.s citizen, I'll be applying for AZ agencies....never done drugs, never missed a day of work, never late, was a sponsored athlete so i'll outrun your retired arse..evidently i have moral character as I'm getting my citizenship, and i have integrity! i have an education, and i have determination...L.A.P.D's loss! ;-)

[QRF]

was a sponsored athlete so i'll outrun your retired arse..

Apparently no respect or humility though....

[yournicked!]

evidently not for EXsdso, well noticed. And humility..nope..once again well noticed.

[CalPolyGrad]

Don't be so bitter. It might not be LAPD's loss. Having a speeding ticket within a year shows immaturity. Good Luck.

[Copp'rPenny]

But in response to your question, your right, some agencies differ. for instance, S.M.P.D looked over my application and selected me to do further testing with them. Unlike the L.A.P.D they look at the whole package as opposed to simple little dq's.


I wouldn't take much stock in the SMPD process. You applied, and you passed the minimum requirements to take the written (i.e. a high school graduate, you have a driver's license, you're either a citizen or in the process). The application didn't ask you about all the possible disqualifiers. When you take your written, you may get a chance to talk to a recruiter. But just being invited to the written is NO guarantee your background is acceptable. Many people are DQ'd along the way to become an LEO.

BTW, the three tickets and you've only been in the US how long???

[IronBruin]

I wouldn't take much stock in the SMPD process. You applied, and you passed the minimum requirements to take the written (i.e. a high school graduate, you have a driver's license, you're either a citizen or in the process). The application didn't ask you about all the possible disqualifiers. When you take your written, you may get a chance to talk to a recruiter. But just being invited to the written is NO guarantee your background is acceptable. Many people are DQ'd along the way to become an LEO.

BTW, the three tickets and you've only been in the US how long???

^^^^^ what she said... SMPD also looked over 500 other applications and selected them to do further testing...

[IronBruin]

There's no form to enter "ken". The question does not appear on the page, but you're prompted to answer it when you register -- likely a site error. Try to register and you'll see what I mean.

They are currently in the process of fixing it, try back later.

[KataKlysmic]

Having a speeding ticket within a year shows immaturity.wow ok lol:rolleyes:

[avalon42]

I wouldn't take much stock in the SMPD process. You applied, and you passed the minimum requirements to take the written (i.e. a high school graduate, you have a driver's license, you're either a citizen or in the process). The application didn't ask you about all the possible disqualifiers. When you take your written, you may get a chance to talk to a recruiter. But just being invited to the written is NO guarantee your background is acceptable. Many people are DQ'd along the way to become an LEO.

BTW, the three tickets and you've only been in the US how long???

What she said. It can be read as a constant disregard for the law, as studies have found correlation between those who commit lower level crimes (infractions) later escalate to misdemeanors and felonies.

This rings true for me, as I have endeavored to keep my driving record clear: I have not received a ticket in over 4 years, and quite happy to be driving the legal speed limit and being cautious enough to avoid accidents.

[yournicked!]

I'm actually not expecting to get into S.M.P.D...BUT...an oral board is a super valuable experience, which I'm in need of.

[CalPolyGrad]

wow ok lol:rolleyes:

Since you changed your response. You can keep rolling your eyes.

[yournicked!]

oh and avalon... no disregard for the law....i respect it 99.9% hence why apart from a few minor tickets my background is squeeky clean....my problem is day dreaming. sometimes miss those big white signs which says speed has reduced :-)

[LAC_LE]

oh and avalon... no disregard for the law....i respect it 99.9% hence why apart from a few minor tickets my background is squeeky clean....my problem is day dreaming. sometimes miss those big white signs which says speed has reduced :-)

Spelling, punctuation and attention to detail don't seem to be among your qualities, either. Last I checked, those are essential skills for law enforcement.

[EricDel]

I feel this thread closing soon...

[R1pilot]

Everybody back away from the computer...

Deep breaths.... deep breaths... Feel yourself relax...

[Osca77]

Yes, L.A.P.D. does have a criteria used to gauge the applicant's background. The list of expected and required qualities are from L.A.P.D's recruitment website: http://www.joinlapd.com/application.html, located about 3/4 down the page.

"Each Standard represents an area that is essential for success in public safety employment. Positions such as Police Officer, Police Specialist, Port Police Officer, Special Officer, and Firefighter, along with other public safety positions designated by the General Manager, are positions of special public trust for which these exacting standards have been designed. The City identifies and selects only those individuals with the highest chance of success in their training and in continuing employment in these critical positions.

Candidates are asked to critically assess their own background in light of these Standards before beginning the examination process.

THE STANDARDS

INTERPERSONAL SKILLS, SENSITIVITY, AND RESPECT FOR OTHERS

Public Safety Officers must be able to draw on extraordinary levels of tact and diplomacy to achieve their goals while dealing with the diverse population of the City of Los Angeles. They must be able to use advice, appropriate warnings and persuasion to engender cooperation from the public. Additionally, they must be able to work effectively either as an individual or as a member of a larger team. Each candidate shall demonstrate an understanding of the skills necessary to deal effectively with others in a cooperative and courteous manner. Desired behaviors may include, but are not limited to:

* Understanding the impact of words and behavior on others, and modifying one’s own behavior, comments, or course of action accordingly
* Concern for the feelings and perspectives of others
* Demonstration of impartiality in dealing with issues of age, gender, sexual orientation, race or ethnicity, religion, and cultural diversity
* Use of tact and diplomacy to achieve goals, resolve disputes, and to diffuse or deescalate conflict
* Ability to work effectively as a member of a team, making appropriate contributions and recognizing the achievements of others

Examples of Potentially Disqualifying Evidence
Incidents of domestic violence; use of verbal or physical abuse or violence toward others indicating a lack of self-control; inability to get along with others in work or personal life; failure to listen effectively; use of derogatory stereotypes in jokes or daily language; making rude and/or condescending remarks to or about others; use of physical force to resolve disputes; demonstrated overreaction to criticism; inability to work effectively as a “team player”; disruptive/challenging to authority; use of harassment, threats, or intimidation to gain an advantage.


DECISION MAKING AND JUDGEMENT
Public Safety Officers must possess extraordinarily good sense and must demonstrate through their past behavior that they can analyze a situation quickly, make sound and responsible decisions, and take appropriate action. Desired behaviors may include, but are not limited to the ability to:

* Critically analyze options and determine an appropriate course of action in a given situation
* Act assertively and without hesitation, but without overreacting
* Make quick, responsible decisions under pressure
* Persuade others to own point of view or to desired course of action
* Know when to make an exception; exercise appropriate discretion
* Prioritize competing demands
* Simultaneously and appropriately address multiple tasks
* Make appropriate choices without constant supervision or detailed instructions
* Creatively develop innovative solutions to problems

Examples of Potentially Disqualifying Evidence
Making poor choices given known circumstances; indecision when options are not clear-cut; failure to take action when appropriate or demonstrating insecurity about making a decision ; behavior indicating poor judgment or failure to consider appropriate options; failure to learn from past mistakes; inability or unwillingness to modify a position; rigid adherence to rules without consideration of alternative information; failure to see or consider all options; succumbing to peer pressure.

MATURITY AND DISCIPLINE
Public Safety Officers must present a background which demonstrates maturity and readiness for such employment. Their past choices must be free from behavior inappropriate to the position being sought. A significant degree of personal discipline must be displayed to ensure that candidates can consistently refrain from taking actions which may be detrimental to their own health and well-being or the health and well-being of others. They must be able to maintain their composure and stay in control during critical situations, maintain a positive attitude, and accept constructive criticism without becoming defensive. Desired behaviors may include, but are not limited to the ability to:

* Refraining from engaging in conduct which, by its very nature, would reflect poorly on the City and limit a Public Safety Officer’s ability to do his or her job effectively
* Adhering to legal and societal constraints and requirements of conduct
* Considering the consequences prior to taking an action
* Accepting responsibility for past actions and mistakes
* Taking proper precautions and avoid unnecessarily risky behavior
* Using constructive criticism to improve performance
* Working well in unstructured situations with minimal supervision

Examples of Potentially Disqualifying Evidence
Use of illegal drugs; abuse of alcohol or prescription medications; failure to follow all laws and common rules of conduct; associating with individuals who break the law; being argumentative, defensive, or blaming others (or circumstances) for mistakes made; past behavior which indicates a tendency to resort to use of force to gain objectives; overbearing in approach to resolving problems; unnecessarily confrontational taking unnecessary personal risks; placing others at risk through one’s own actions; reacting childishly or with anger to criticism or disappointment.

HONESTY, INTEGRITY AND PERSONAL ETHICS
Public Safety Officers are required to demonstrate the highest possible personal integrity through their honesty and ethical conduct. They must be able to maintain high standards of personal conduct, abide by the law, and demonstrate attributes such as truthfulness and fairness in relationships with others. Each candidate must demonstrate a willingness to work within “the system”. Examples of behaviors which meet this standard include, but are not limited to:

* Being truthful in dealings with others
* Fully cooperating and being completely forthcoming during the pre-employment selection process
* Admitting and understanding past mistakes
* Refraining from using employment or a position of authority for personal gain
* Refraining from “bending” rules or otherwise trying to “beat the system”
* Accepting responsibility for one’s own actions

Examples of Potentially Disqualifying Evidence
Makes false and/or misleading statements or intentionally omits relevant information; purposefully withholds information; minimizes past mistakes or errors; blames others/makes excuses for mistakes; attempts to induce others to give false information; “bends” the rules or uses a position of authority for personal gain; refuses to accept responsibility for improper actions; condones the unethical behavior of others through silence; engages in illegal or immoral activities of such a nature that would be offensive to contemporary community standards of propriety; theft; fraud.

SETTING AND ACHIEVING GOALS
Public Safety Officers are required to demonstrate the ability to set and achieve personal and professional goals. Candidates for public safety positions can best position themselves for positive consideration through continuing achievement in the workplace, educational environment, volunteer activities and/or community involvement. Each candidate must demonstrate initiative and the ability to follow through on all commitments without constant supervision and detailed instruction. Candidates have the opportunity to demonstrate their ability to set and achieve goals, their ability to work in a diligent, reliable, and conscientious manner in accordance with specific rules and policies, and their readiness for, and commitment to, public service through the following:

* Advancement in the workplace through promotion or increased responsibilities
* Completing work as required and on schedule
* Meeting high standards for punctuality and attendance
* Meeting family obligations
* Educational achievement
* Involvement in volunteer or community improvement activities
* Easily meeting unpredictable or unexpected challenges


Examples of potentially disqualifying evidence
Failure to meet commitments to work, school, family, volunteer or community activities.

RECORD CHECKSCandidates for public safety positions are held to exacting standards of behavior throughout all aspects of their lives. Candidates can expect specific inquiry to be made into their past behavior regarding:

* The exercise of fiscal responsibility and acceptance of responsibility for financial obligations
* Employing safe driving practices
* Maintaining stable employment
* Obeying laws, rules, regulations, and orders
* Military accomplishments


Examples of potentially disqualifying evidence
Past due accounts, discharged debts, late payments, collection accounts, civil judgments and/or bankruptcy; failure to exercise fiscal responsibility commensurate with income; failure to follow all traffic laws; numerous moving and non-moving violations; at fault traffic accidents; terminations or suspensions from work; reprimands or counseling for poor work performance (including Military service); failure to meet obligations (for example, auto insurance, auto registration, selective service registration, IRS requirements, child support obligations, etc.); law enforcement contacts, arrests, and convictions (as appropriate); other than Honorable discharge from the military.

[ExSDSO]

evidently not for EXsdso, well noticed. And humility..nope..once again well noticed.

If you cant take a joke on an online forum or if you cant tell what sarcasm is then I think Law Enforcement may be the wrong career for you. My advice to you...since you're only a hopeful right minded candidate.....grow thick skin because you'll need it.

* Understanding the impact of words and behavior on others, and modifying one’s own behavior, comments, or course of action accordingly
* Concern for the feelings and perspectives of others
* Demonstration of impartiality in dealing with issues of age, gender, sexual orientation, race or ethnicity, religion, and cultural diversity
* Use of tact and diplomacy to achieve goals, resolve disputes, and to diffuse or deescalate conflict
* Ability to work effectively as a member of a team, making appropriate contributions and recognizing the achievements of others

There you go buddy. I couldnt have said it better myself.

[yournicked!]

*YAWNNNNNNNN..boringgggggg

[IronBruin]

*YAWNNNNNNNN..boringgggggg

You sound like a 5 year-old I know... and that's not meant to be a put-down, that's literally who I thought of when I read that.

[yournicked!]

Thanks. I'll take that as constructive criticism

[Berlioz]

You sound like a 5 year-old I know... and that's not meant to be a put-down, that's literally who I thought of when I read that.

I think the 5 year old would make a better candidate.

[IronBruin]

I think the 5 year old would make a better candidate.

LMAO!

[TKDBlack]

I guess not all members on this board are fit to be LEO candidates after all :D

[R1pilot]

You've got lots of people on this site with questions...

Give them an answer they don't want to hear or some criticism (positive or not) and you will likely see their "true colors."

Wannabe turned to troll in just a few posts...

So, who's boring now?

[KataKlysmic]

Since you changed your response. You can keep rolling your eyes.You still could have quoted the original post.

I don't even remember what I originally posted but it's not like you were going to say anything that would make people go "Damn" in response to it.

[CalPolyGrad]

You still could have quoted the original post.

I don't even remember what I originally posted but it's not like you were going to say anything that would make people go "Damn" in response to it.

I could not quote it because it changed. You said, "tell me you haven't gone over the limit?" I actually learned from my mistake. If you didn't think there was something wrong with that statement then you wouldn't have changed it. You should get a better memory instead of insulting me about what I'm going to say. How are you going to remember anything when you become a police officer (rhetorical question)? Why do I need to impress anyone? I'm just happy that I'm meeting with my LAPD BI on Monday.

MATURITY AND DISCIPLINE
* Taking proper precautions and avoid unnecessarily risky behavior

Examples of potentially disqualifying evidence
* Employing safe driving practices

[Copp'rPenny]

Damn.

;)

[CalPolyGrad]

Damn.

;)

haha :D

[IronBruin]

I have thoroughly enjoyed this thread.

[breezygirl]

Everybody back away from the computer...

Deep breaths.... deep breaths... Feel yourself relax...



hahaha! :)

[SDPDApplicant]

I have thoroughly enjoyed this thread.