I have applied at several agencies in the area. And everyone of the applications ask what other agencies have you applied with. My question is if I wasn't hired or DQ'd from one department and I never disclosed that I ever applied there how would the current department know to check with that agency about the info I gave them(I know agencies like to share info) Why should I tell them about an agency that passed me over when it could hurt my chances of getting hired somewhere else. I know they preach 'Honesty' and 'Full Disclosure' but seems like some of the questions they ask are designed to qet you DQ'ed. Why would I admit to something they have no way of finding out unless I tell them.

Departments in my area often have close enough relationships with one another that the supervisors or investigators can, and sometimes will, call each other to ask if a candidate has applied with them. It doesn't always happen, but it does sometimes.

THEY CAN FIND OUT EVEN IF YOU DON'T TELL THEM SOMETIMES!

Some of the questions are designed to get you "DQ'ed" if you're not someone they want. The background investigation is to weed out undesirable candidates.

Departments in my area often have close enough relationships with one another that the supervisors or investigators can, and sometimes will, call each other to ask if a candidate has applied with them. It doesn't always happen, but it does sometimes.

Could also be that the other department has already has done a background check on you and this saves this town time and money of doing another???

Good point JJ!