Can felons be in the military?

Can Felons be in the Military?

The short answer is yes, felons can join the military, but it’s a complex and challenging process. The military has strict rules and regulations regarding criminal backgrounds, and individuals with a felony conviction may face difficulties in enlisting or receiving a security clearance.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for military service, individuals must meet certain requirements, including:

• Being a U.S. citizen
• Being at least 17 years old (with parental consent) or 18 years old
• Scoring well on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test
• Passing a physical examination
• Meeting height and weight standards

Criminal Background Checks

The military conducts thorough background checks on all applicants, including checks for felony convictions. The check is conducted by the military’s Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and includes:

• Level 1 Background Check: A basic check of federal and state criminal records, including fingerprinting
• Level 2 Background Check: A more comprehensive check, including interviews and verification of information

Felony Convictions:

If an applicant has a felony conviction, the military will consider the following factors when making a decision:

• Type of Felony: The type and severity of the felony offense will be considered. Non-violent, non-felony-related offenses (e.g., drug possession) may be viewed more favorably than violent or felony-related offenses (e.g., assault, weapons charges)
• Age at Time of Conviction: The age of the applicant at the time of the conviction will be considered. Convictions from when the applicant was younger (e.g., a minor) may be viewed as less serious than those from adulthood
• Sentence and Probation: The length and terms of the sentence, as well as any probation or parole periods, will be considered

Exceptions and Waivers

While the military typically requires applicants to have no felony convictions, there are exceptions and waivers available for certain cases:

• Moral Waiver: The military may grant a moral waiver for an individual with a felony conviction, allowing them to enlist if they meet certain requirements
• Background Check Waiver: In some cases, the military may grant a waiver for an applicant with a felony conviction, allowing them to bypass the background check process

Benefits of Serving in the Military for Felons

Serving in the military can provide benefits for individuals with felony convictions, including:

• Criminal Forgiveness: The military’s "expungement" process can remove felony convictions from an individual’s record
• Career Advancement: Military service can provide a fresh start and opportunities for career advancement, which may be difficult to achieve with a felony conviction
• Personal Growth: Military service can be a transformative experience, helping individuals develop discipline, self-respect, and a sense of purpose

Table: Military Service for Felons

Conclusion

While felony convictions can present challenges for individuals seeking to join the military, it’s not impossible. By understanding the eligibility requirements, criminal background checks, and exceptions and waivers, individuals with felony convictions can take the first step towards a fresh start and a new career.