Why would a recent bankruptcy disqualify an individual for police academy?

Question

I am interested in becoming a police officer and recently spoke to the departments' recruiter on the phone. He seemed to think my Chapter 7 bankruptcy was almost certainly a deal breaker for admission. I don't get it.

Answer 1

Explain the circumstances about the bankruptcy and what you are doing to improve your finances.  Everybody has financial problems, it's just the extent that you let it fester and get worse.  

Answer 2

Bad credit and/or bankruptcy indicates that the applicant is immature and not responsible.

That is one of the major things that get applicants 'booted'.

Additionally, those with money or credit issues are more 'likely' to be involved in bribery or other improper financial transactions on the job.

Answer 3

Many employers check potential hires credit. Bad credit will prevent you from getting jobs. It's very common for employers to pull your credit.

I suspect it has to do with moral credibility and your ability to handle responsibility. Also, if you are in financial trouble, you are more likely to do/accept things you should not in order to alleviate your financial situation.

Answer 4

Bankruptcy, and even poor credit for that matter, is considered because it shows a lack of responsibility. There is also a greater possibility of temptation, as officers often encounter large amounts of cash, drugs, and other evidence.

The circumstances are the key. A one time event such as a loss of employment that was not your fault, a major medical expense, or a divorce is a one time thing... but a lack of poor financial decisions will disqualify you.

Answer 5

How long ago and why.  This is the key.  They are looking for character issues.  I was able to get around this as my character was good but my identity was stolen.  Hence the bk.  I was able to prove this and wala I am still a candidate.

Answer 6

It has to do more with character. How you handle your personal finances can have a direct correlation to how you handle personal decisions. In this case public attention.

Answer 7

A chapter 7 shows a lack of self control (by making the excessive debts), followed by a willingness to just "forget" about your debts and leave others to pay your bills.  These traits are not really what we want to see in our police officers.

However - if the reason for the chapter 7 was truly due to horrible unforseeable tragedy in life - then state such on the application.  

The vast majority of people will overlook a chapter 7 for situations that really are not in a persons control. Proof of the situation existing causing the chapter 7 will be necessary for the story to be believed, and the chapter 7 overlooked.