What do you guys think of my chances here?
So, I'm applying to become a LEO. I didn't realize until recently that this was the career I wanted, and I'm currently filling out my PHS.
I'm trying to be exceptionally honest on everything, but I'm wondering realistically where I stand.
Here's my background:
- 33 years old.
- DWI about 9 years ago.
- Received a General (Under Honorable Conditions) discharge from the Navy as a result of the DWI.
- Failed to file federal taxes for 2021 and 2022. I've since completed and mailed both returns. The IRS has confirmed receipt, but they haven't been processed yet.
- My credit isn't great, but my total debt is now under $4,000, and I've set up payment plans on everything outstanding.
- My employment history looks somewhat sporadic because I've spent much of the last 10 years running a digital business and took traditional jobs when I needed additional income.
- I used marijuana socially in the past. My last use was March 2022. I estimated approximately 50 lifetime uses on my PHS because I wanted to be completely honest rather than minimize it.
- Last year I was removed from a customer service position after I told a customer to "shut up" during a phone call. I immediately reported the incident to my supervisor and was terminated.
I'm disclosing all of this on my PHS. I'm not trying to hide anything or minimize my past. My goal is to be completely honest and let the agency decide.
Realistically, how competitive am I? I'm not asking for reassurance - I know none of these things are positives. I'm interested in hearing from background investigators, recruiters, or officers who've seen applicants with similar histories. Is this the type of background that can be overcome with honesty and demonstrated improvement, or am I facing an uphill battle?
Posted Jul 3, 2026, 6:17 PM UTC