Can Felons Go to the Military?
The answer to this question is a complex one, and it depends on a variety of factors. For those who have committed felony offenses, serving in the military may seem like an unlikely or even impossible pursuit. However, the Military Services do provide a path for individuals with felony records to join and serve, although the process and qualifications are strict.
Pursuing Military Service After a Felony
Despite the stigma associated with having a felony record, some Military Services are willing to consider applicants who have made amends for their mistakes and are seeking redemption. Here are the basic guidelines:
- Service members’ discretion: While military regulations prohibit felons from being admitted to the military, individual Service members are granted discretion to evaluate the applicant’s criminal record and determine whether to overlook or consider their past indiscretions.
- Application process: Prospective service members with felony records must complete an SF-86 (Questionnaire for National Security Position) and submit it along with their enlistment package. This questionnaire requests information about the applicant’s criminal history, including felony convictions.
- Favorable consideration: To have their felony record considered favorable, applicants must submit documentation to explain their past behavior, highlighting efforts made to reform and show rehabilitation.
Factors Influencing Favorable Consideration
The following factors contribute to a Service member’s decision to consider a felony applicant:
- The type of felony: Military Services are more likely to overlook non-violent offenses, such as white-collar crimes or drug-related felonies, than violent felonies like assault, homicide, or drug trafficking.
- Time elapsed since conviction: More weight is given to an individual’s behavior since their felony conviction, indicating that they have turned their life around and are unlikely to pose a risk to national security.
- Proof of rehabilitation: Applicants who have completed probation or community service, or earned a college degree, demonstrate their commitment to personal growth and development.
- Background check: Credible sources, such as letters of recommendation or counseling records, can verify an applicant’s good standing.
Military Services with Alternative Pathways
Several Military Services offer alternative pathways for felons to join:
| Military Service | Alternative Pathways |
|---|---|
| US Navy | Navy Enlisted Enlistment Option (NEEO) program allows certain felons to join and serve |
| US Marine Corps | Marines consider waivers for applicants with non-violent felony records |
| US Air Force | AF Military Entrance Processing Stations (MEPS) will accept felons with favorable reviews |
Benefits and Disadvantages of Joining the Military with a Felony Record
Joining the military with a felony record can have both advantages and disadvantages:
Advantages:
- Gain job skills and education: Military training and experience can significantly improve job prospects after honorable discharge.
- Restore self-esteem: Serving in the military can help an individual regain their self-confidence and sense of purpose.
- Clear felony record: Honorably discharged service members have their felony records pardon or expunged, allowing them to secure civilian employment without fear of disclosure.
Disadvantages:
- Long wait: The enlistment process for felons can take months or even years, as Military Services assess their suitability.
- Waiver required: Certain felony convictions may prevent military service altogether, despite a favorable review.
- Background check restrictions: In some cases, Military Services may require additional clearance processes, such as Secret security clearance, which can hinder the enlistment process.
Conclusion
Can felons go to the military? While the answer may seem straightforward, Military Services recognize that individuals who have committed felony offenses are capable of change and deserve a second chance. By pursuing alternative pathways and submitting extensive documentation, individuals with felony records can demonstrate their willingness to reform and contribute to their country’s defense. Military Service members and Military Personnel will carefully evaluate an individual’s criminal record and may consider waiving felony offenses for those who have taken steps to rectify their mistakes.
