Is it possible to get a job as a federal agent if you've arrested?

Question

When I was 18, I was arrested for possession of marijuana. I was never convicted and all charges of against me were dropped on the condition that I was in good behavior for my year of probation, which is a program called a "conditional discharge". I applied for the Department of Homeland Security a while back specifically the Border Patrol. I got a 92 on my exam and I passed every single process other than my background check, in which the Internal Affairs officer told me that it has been too recent. He stated that I should apply next year, and that I would have a much better chance of getting in. Do you think agent was just egging me on, or is there some truth in his statement or have I ruined all chances of myself getting into the federal law enforcement sector?

Answer 1

No, the agent was not egging you on and you may still have a chance to work for the Federal Government. It just depending of the type of position you are applying for. Maybe you should try applying for a different position and later re-apply for the Border Patrol. Some times they go back 7 or 10 years it depends on the type of position you are interested in and what the standards or qualifications are.