I have a similar issue as other people that have posted but I know departments disqualify for different types of charges so Ill explain my situation. All my life I wanted to become a police officer. My father was a civi servant as was his father, as well as my great grandfather. I took the police exam when I was 21 years old. However it is a requirement for the NYPD to receive 60 college credits in order to become a police officer, so after taking the exam I started college and accumulating the 60 credits. I have since completed the college requirement however I have some concerns. A few years ago I was pulled over in a car with someone who had pills in their possession. Because nobody admitted it was theres I got swept up in it and was charged with possession in the 7th. Im trying to find out how much of a role this misdemeanor on my record will play in the PO application process.

As you wrote, it depends on the department. It also depends on whether or not you were convicted. As time passes, your chances of getting hired will likely increase. If the incident or charge doesn't automatically disqualify you with a department, then the rest of your background will also be important. The less red flags, the better!

Definitely depends on the department!

If you were convicted, it would play a huge role.