Saturday, February 20, 2016

Can I Obtain a Secret or Top Secret Security Clearance if I Was Arrested for Theft of a Laptop Valued between $1,000.00 but less than $10,000.00?

Can I obtain a Secret or Top Secret Security Clearance if I was arrested for theft of a laptop valued between $1000.00 but less than $10,000.00?

The incident was 6 years ago, without any repeat or similar incidents.  I served Unsupervised Probation for 3 years, and this matter was Expunged from my Record.

A Security Clearance is granted to a person with a Need to Know specific information. 
So, yes, it is possible to obtain a Secret or Top Secret Security Clearance; even with a past arrest.

But let's qualify the matter further.

Some positions and organizations have different hiring criteria, so its important to research and know what the organization's policies, regulations and standards are regarding suitability and security clearances.

Are there additional factors that may affect this?

Recency
How recent was the incident?  
The passage of time without the same or similar incident reoccurring; may allow some organizations to hire you.

Is the matter ongoing or unresolved?
Its not possible to adjudicate any ongoing or unresolved legal issues.
  So the quicker the issue gets resolves benefits everyone.  If you've already applied for a position, ensure to provide updates on a regular basis to your designated Point of Contact (qualify if they want weekly or monthly updates).

What was the result or disposition of the arrest?

- Misdemeanor or Felony Conviction, Dismissed, etc...
Some organization policy prohibits hiring individuals with Felony Convictions.

Some organizations also qualify the results surrounding dismissed Court Cases.

Is the person on Probation?
Some organizations can hire you while you're on Probation, other organizations can hire you once you complete Probation.

Was this person's Record Expunged?
When an incident is Expunged from your Record; this matter shouldn't be held against you. 


Are there any other factors that may affect this?
Check with the organization's Human Resource or Personnel Security Professionals to qualify their policies and regulations regarding your circumstances.