I am 27 and currently applying for contra costa county sheriff's department and santa clara county corrections here in california. I was wondering if i could get some of your opinions on my chances of getting hired with a not so perfect background. Keep in mind I have no convictions or arrest. No drug use in my entire life (I'm serious!). I also heard that contra costa was lenient on certain things because there short on bodies. There process is only three months (That's Fast).

-Been working for the last 10yrs. Have never held a job for more than 3 yrs but was only fired from one (abandoned job site for a family emergency). All other departures were because of work stoppage or wanting an increase in pay.

-Carried a concealed firearm for jewelry escort job 3yrs ago but was not caught. Only did the job for month. Was having a hard time finding a job at the time.

-Have some delinquent accounts but they are all paid off or current (Two big ones but they are current. Other 3 are small dollar amounts and are paid off).

-Have done some under the table work while on unemployment.

-Bounced a few checks in my lifetime and had illegal cable several times.

Do I even have a chance?
I'd appreciate anyone's opinion or advice on whether to proceed.

Best Wishes

You could still have a chance with some departments. My department probably would not hire you right now. However, that does not mean that the two agencies you're applying for will not. Having been fired from one job due to leaving for a family emergency would not be such a concern depending on how long ago it was and what the emergency was. Hopefully for your other "departures", you gave a two week notice. Having carried a concealed firearm illegally a few years ago would cause concern. If your accounts are not currently delinquent, and you've been making payments on time for a while, and you don't owe too much money, then I wouldn't worry too much about that. Under the table work is not so unusual. Having bounced a few checks, if not recently, probably wouldn't hurt you too much in and of itself. Having illegal cable would also cause concern.

I would suggest proceeding. It probably can't hurt. If you are not hired, you might be able to find out why. 27 is still relatively young. Continue to do the right things. Whatever job you have or get, even if it is not one your dream job, be a good employee. Your work history can be important when trying to get another job. Keep paying your bills on time, and your credit history will improve. If you don't get hired now, maybe you will in a few years.

It is very good that you have never used drugs. I commend you for that. Having used drugs is a hurdle for many people that want to be police officers.

I don't know about the two departments you're applying with, but you would probably have some difficulty with some departments, but still have a chance with others.

listen man i knew guys with more serious issues that urs that got recently hired by lapd.............so y dont u try for lacity police jobs better chance and when u apply make sure u check all 4 departments lapd, laxpd, general services and port pd so u will have a better chance.....i think u'll make it!