Can Convicted Felons Join the Military?
The United States military is one of the most prestigious and respected institutions in the world, and serving in the military is a source of pride for many individuals. However, the path to joining the military can be complex and fraught with challenges, particularly for individuals with a criminal history. In this article, we will explore the possibility of convicted felons joining the military and the processes and requirements involved.
Background Check and Security Clearance
Before discussing the specifics of convicted felons joining the military, it’s essential to understand the role of background checks and security clearance in the enlistment process. The military requires all service members to undergo a thorough background check and security clearance process to ensure the safety and security of national assets and personnel.
As part of this process, the military conducts a review of an individual’s criminal history, including any felony convictions. The goal is to identify any potential security risks or threats to the military’s mission.
Felony Convictions and Military Enlistment
So, can convicted felons join the military? The answer is not a simple yes or no. The military has a specific set of guidelines and criteria for considering felony convictions and determining whether an individual is eligible for enlistment.
Types of Felonies
The military considers the following types of felonies when evaluating an individual’s eligibility for enlistment:
• Serious Felonies: Crimes such as murder, assault, robbery, burglary, and drug trafficking are considered serious felonies.
• Non-Serious Felonies: Crimes such as theft, embezzlement, and fraud are considered non-serious felonies.
• Misdemeanors: Crimes such as petty theft, disorderly conduct, and minor drug offenses are considered misdemeanors.
Military Enlistment Criteria
The military uses the following criteria to evaluate an individual’s eligibility for enlistment with a felony conviction:
• Length of Time Since Conviction: The military requires a minimum of 3 years to have passed since the conviction date before considering enlistment.
• Nature of the Crime: The military considers the type and severity of the crime when evaluating eligibility.
• Time Served: The military considers the length of time served in prison and any probation or parole.
• Behavior Since Conviction: The military evaluates an individual’s behavior since the conviction, including any negative or positive factors.
Enlistment Options for Convicted Felons
There are several enlistment options available to convicted felons:
• Delayed Entry Program (DEP): The DEP allows individuals to enlist before being processed through the Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS).
• Officer Candidate School (OCS): OCS provides a path for individuals with a felony conviction to join the military as officers.
• Enlistment with a Waiver: In some cases, the military may grant a waiver to an individual with a felony conviction to join the military.
Requirements for Convicted Felons
To join the military with a felony conviction, individuals must meet the following requirements:
• Waiver Request: The individual must submit a waiver request to the military’s personnel office.
• Security Clearance: The individual must undergo a security clearance investigation, which may involve a polygraph examination and/or an interview with law enforcement.
• Physical Examination: The individual must undergo a physical examination to ensure they meet the military’s physical fitness standards.
Table: Military Enlistment Criteria for Convicted Felons
| Criteria | Serious Felony | Non-Serious Felony | Misdemeanor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Length of Time Since Conviction | 5 years | 3 years | 1 year |
| Nature of the Crime | Serious offense | Non-serious offense | Minor offense |
| Time Served | Prison time required | Probation/parole required | None required |
| Behavior Since Conviction | Good behavior required | Good behavior preferred | Good behavior not required |
Conclusion
While convicted felons may face challenges when attempting to join the military, it is not impossible. The military has a range of options available for individuals with a felony conviction, including the delayed entry program, officer candidate school, and enlistment with a waiver. To increase their chances of being accepted, convicted felons must meet specific requirements, including submitting a waiver request, undergoing a security clearance investigation, and passing a physical examination.
