Does Military Take Felons?
The United States military has a long history of accepting individuals with criminal records, including those with felony convictions. However, the process of joining the military with a felony record can be complex and dependent on various factors. In this article, we will delve into the details of the military’s stance on felons, the types of felony convictions that may be considered, and the steps to take if you are interested in joining the military with a felony record.
Types of Felony Convictions Considered
The military has a hierarchy of crimes, with more serious offenses affecting an individual’s eligibility for service. The following are some examples of felony convictions that may be considered by the military:
- Non-violent felony offenses: These include crimes such as fraud, drug possession, and property crimes like burglary or theft. These types of offenses may not automatically disqualify an individual from military service.
- Violent felony offenses: These include crimes such as murder, assault, and robbery. These types of offenses are typically considered more serious and may disqualify an individual from military service.
- Sex-related felony offenses: These include crimes such as rape, sexual assault, and child pornography. These types of offenses are typically considered serious and may disqualify an individual from military service.
Military’s Policy on Felons
The military’s policy on felons is outlined in the Department of Defense (DoD) Instruction 1300.06, which states that individuals with felony convictions may be eligible for military service if they have been convicted of a non-violent felony offense and have completed their sentence, including probation and parole.
Enlistment Eligibility
To be eligible for enlistment, an individual with a felony record must meet the following requirements:
- The felony conviction must be more than 5 years old: The military considers felony convictions older than 5 years to be less relevant and may not automatically disqualify an individual from service.
- The individual must have completed their sentence: The individual must have completed their sentence, including probation and parole, and must not be currently serving a sentence.
- The individual must not have been dishonorably discharged: If an individual was dishonorably discharged from the military, they may not be eligible for re-enlistment.
- The individual must pass a background check: The military will conduct a thorough background check to ensure that the individual does not have any outstanding warrants or pending criminal charges.
Character and Fitness Review
As part of the enlistment process, the military conducts a character and fitness review to assess an individual’s moral character and fitness for military service. This review considers the individual’s entire criminal history, including any felony convictions, as well as their behavior and actions since the conviction.
Table: Military’s Review Process
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Application | The individual submits an application to join the military. |
| 2. Initial Screening | The military conducts an initial screening to determine if the individual is eligible for service. |
| 3. Background Check | The military conducts a thorough background check to verify the individual’s criminal history. |
| 4. Character and Fitness Review | The military conducts a character and fitness review to assess the individual’s moral character and fitness for service. |
| 5. Interview | The individual may be required to attend an interview with a military recruiter or officer. |
| 6. Medical Screening | The individual undergoes a medical screening to ensure they are physically fit for service. |
What to Do If You’re a Felon and Want to Join the Military
If you are a felon and interested in joining the military, here are some steps you can take:
- Research the military’s policy on felons: Familiarize yourself with the military’s policy on felons and understand the types of felony convictions that may be considered.
- Consult with a recruiter: Reach out to a military recruiter and discuss your felony record. They can provide guidance on the enlistment process and help you determine if you are eligible for service.
- Prepare for the character and fitness review: Make sure you have all necessary documentation, including court records and proof of completion of your sentence.
- Be honest and upfront: Be truthful and honest about your felony record and any other criminal history during the enlistment process.
Conclusion
Joining the military with a felony record can be challenging, but it is not impossible. By understanding the military’s policy on felons and the types of felony convictions that may be considered, individuals can take steps to increase their chances of eligibility for service. Remember to research the military’s policy, consult with a recruiter, prepare for the character and fitness review, and be honest and upfront about your felony record. With the right guidance and preparation, individuals with felony records can take the first step towards a successful military career.
