When I was 16 I was charged with vandalism for breaking windows in an abandoned building. I had to go to court and me and my parents had to pay for the damage. I was also told I was put on probation for 1 year. Me and my friends did this some other times when I was 15 or 16 but we weren't caught. I tried weed a couple times and drank underage some times, but I don't think any more then the average kid. I've had a couple speeding tickets since I've been driving. That's about it. I'm now 24, and really want to become a police officer. Would the vandalism be a big problem for me? I'm thinking about going to a police academy.

It could be a problem, but since the crimes probably weren't felonies, and since you were a juvenile at the time, and since it has been several years since, you shouldn't worry too much

That kind of behavior certainly doesn't look good, and can cause you to have to wait longer than you would have otherwise. However, I agree with the other poster. Based on what you wrote, you shouldn't have much of a problem. Many factors are taken into account when a police department is considering you for a position. Good luck, and keep us posted!

From my experience, I think you'll be OK.

I was cited for slicing a car's tires when I was 15. It was stupid. Luckily, it didn't affect me becoming a police officer. I didn't try to become an officer until I was 26 though.