I am 18 years old, graduated high school last year and am currently perusing my Associates Degree in criminal justice at a local community college in Michigan. I played football and basketball in high school so I am relatively physically fit and could pass the MCOLES requirements. I have a few questions about what to do and about my background.

Background

When I was in 8th grade I was caught steeling from cars but was never charged with anything and nothing was ever put on my record.

I have drank alcohol before and smoked weed no more than 5 times.

And I have bought alcohol before.

I know being honest is a huge thing but I am wondering why, if they will never know I have drank before or bought alcohol why tell them? I understand the smoking could possible come up in a drug test but it has been over a year since I last smoked and will be another two years until I am done with school, then the police academy. Will these things hold me back from being a from becoming a cop

What to do?

I plan on finishing school and going to the police academy. Is this the right thing to do or should I go to school then try to find a police officer job then go to the police academy.

Thanks for your help.

The fact that you were not charged is a good thing. However, an agency would likely consider how many times you have stolen from cars (or stolen at all), what you stole, and how long it has been since you've stolen anything. Obviously, the fewer number of times you've stolen anything, the better, and the longer it has been, the better.

Don't drink alcohol again until you are 21. Don't smoke any more marijuana, and don't do anything else that is illegal!

I would suggest continuing college after you earn your two year degree. Earn a four year degree! It will make your application better, and put more time between your indiscretions and when you apply for the police academy or with police departments.

I would focus on your education, and then apply to some larger police departments that would send you to the police academy.

Thanks a lot for the help sarge, i was only caught steeling that one time and didnt do it after

Caught once! But you might have to worry about how many times you actually stole!