What’s In a Police Background Check?

For anyone considering a career in law enforcement or for those simply curious, understanding the scope of a police background check is paramount. Conducted to ensure the reliability and integrity of potential recruits, these checks delve into various aspects of an individual's past and present conduct. In this article, we will explore the common elements that constitute a police background check: criminal records, employment history, and personal references.

Criminal Records

At the core of a police background check is the criminal record investigation. This encompasses a thorough review of any past offenses, ranging from minor infractions to serious felonies. The police department will typically access local, state, and federal databases to compile a comprehensive report of an individual's criminal history.

Elements Examined Include:

• Arrests: Records of any arrests and the outcomes of those arrests, including dismissed charges, convictions, or acquittals

• Convictions: A detailed account of any misdemeanors or felonies that resulted in convictions

• Warrants: Information regarding any open warrants for the individual's arrest

• Sex Offender Registries: Verification of whether the person appears on any sex offender registries

• Incarceration Records: Details about previous imprisonments, if applicable

Employment History

Another pivotal component of a police background check is the examination of the applicant's work history. Law enforcement agencies diligently verify previous employment to gauge reliability, work ethic, and patterns of behavior in professional settings.

Aspects Reviewed Include:

• Verification of Employment: Confirmation of past job positions, duration of employment, and reasons for leaving previous roles.

• Performance Evaluations: Reviews of performance assessments provided by former employers.

• Disciplinary Actions: Any records of workplace discipline or terminations.

• Professional Licenses or Certifications: Confirmation of the validity of any professional licenses or certifications that are relevant to law enforcement roles.

Personal References

In addition to scrutinizing criminal records and employment history, police background checks often involve reaching out to personal references. These references provide a glimpse into the applicant's character and personal life.

Information Sought From References May Include:

• Character Assessment: Personal references are asked to evaluate the applicant's integrity, honesty, responsibility, and social behavior.

• Relationship Details: Clarification on the nature and length of the acquaintanceship with the applicant.

• Observations: Any observations of the applicant's behavior that may pertain to their suitability for a career in law enforcement.

Conclusion

Police background checks are a rigorous process that law enforcement agencies employ to ascertain the suitability of candidates for the position. It includes meticulous examinations of criminal records, employment history, and personal references. It is designed not only to eliminate candidates with a problematic history but also to establish a workforce of individuals who have demonstrated professional competence and a sound moral character.

Understanding the specifics of these checks is important for preparing for a career in law enforcement and appreciating the high standards to which police officers are held.