Can I Pursue a Career in Law Enforcement if I Was a Heavy Marijuana User as a Teenager?

For those considering a career in law enforcement, questions about past drug use can play a significant role in the application process. Specifically, heavy marijuana use as a teenager can raise concerns among aspiring police officers. This article explores the implications and requirements for those seeking to join law enforcement, despite past drug usage.

Understanding the Process and Requirements

If you are under 25 and have stopped using marijuana and have dedicated to a life of sobriety, it is possible to disclose that it was "juvenile adolescent behavior." However, once you turn 25, any drug use will be considered an automatic decline. Contrary to some beliefs, law enforcement does not operate on a "don’t ask, don’t tell" policy where you can get away with past drug use without it being an issue.

Everyone aspiring to join the police academy must undergo psychological evaluations during the polygraph test. These evaluations are designed to catch any lies, and if an applicant is caught trying to cheat the truth, they will either be told to stop or directly fail the test. It's essential to be honest and transparent to pass the psychological evaluations.

Steps to Clean Up Your Life and Reset for a Career

For those serious about pursuing a career in law enforcement, the first step is to stop smoking marijuana and make a commitment to a sober lifestyle. Improve your physical and mental health by getting a job, applying yourself, and engaging in healthy activities. This will make you a more stable and reliable candidate for the police academy. It is recommended to wait a few years before applying to show that you have genuinely changed and are ready to commit to a life of service.

The Risks and Challenges of a Career in Law Enforcement

Entering law enforcement is risky and challenging. The policies and practices can vary from department to department. Some departments are strictly by the book, and others might be corrupt. It's essential to research and understand the dynamics of the specific department you are interested in.

I share my own experiences growing up with a heavy marijuana user who later became involved in corrupt activities. I started smoking marijuana at a young age, and I quickly realized that marijuana being illegal provided an advantage to criminals in uniform. For instance, the town's chief would let his wife smoke marijuana, and he himself admitted to using crack cocaine. Years later, he was caught selling guns from the evidence lockup.

Moreover, there are instances of police officers who engage in corrupt practices. One cop had an informant buddy who would seize drugs and money from people, give them to his friend to sell, and then entrap victims, seizing drugs again. The cop would take the cash and split the loot with his partner. Another officer was caught dating a minor, and his younger girlfriend, who became his wife, is now an active officer.

The current state of law enforcement is disheartening. Prisons and correctional facilities are in dire conditions, with guards engaging in graphic and inhumane behavior. There are reports of guards beating, raping, and verbally and physically abusing inmates. The situation is not only concerning but also illegal and unethical. For these reasons, I strongly advocate for the decriminalization of marijuana and other substances, returning to the civil ways that the USA was before the rise of the DEA, FDA, ATF, and FBI.

Conclusion

While past marijuana use can pose challenges in pursuing a career in law enforcement, it is not insurmountable. It is crucial to disclose past behaviors honestly and dedicate to a life of sobriety. Research the specific department you are interested in joining, and be prepared for the challenges and risks. Additionally, consider the broader issues in the criminal justice system and the need for reform.