HCP on a job application

[chipperi]

I am applying for a job in a near by city as a 911 dispatcher. The background check portion of the app asks if i have a HCP and why....does this really belong on a job app? Thoughts?

[I_Like_Pie]

Does it belong...No

Is it legal...yes

[JeffL]

Answer: Yes, **** happens.

[Guest GT_Rat]

Answer: Yes. For the same reason cops carry guns.

[TMMT]

Let you in on a small secret about BI's (having spent many years as a LE Background Investigator) any time an investigator can find a corner to cut, sadly they typically will.

I've seen where investigators will green light apps of folks who are currently employed at other similar agencies under the assumption they are good to go, otherwise they would not still be employed (no crap).

I've seen BI's for less sensitive jobs, such as a 911 dispatcher get green lighted for simplistic reason, such as, in this case you holding a current HCP and in good standing with the state, no suspended D/L, apparent criminal history and a HCP.

I've seen BI's based solely on polygraphs, which are commonly used to "lessen" the footwork of an actual physical human being, performing an actual physical background investigation.

I've seen BI's green lighted based on a single letter of recommendation by say, a Sheriff or Chief of Police.

Its sad but I bet the question has more to do with the BI's need to know if you have already withstood the test of a BI before, simply to save him or her a step or 10, cutting corners etc...

And folks wonder why bad apples get into LE, then cause massive headaches for good cops ultimately ending up in the news or in jail?

Its why I'm no longer a BI and spend most my days investigating bad cops.

Just food for thought.

Edited October 18, 2009 by TMMT

[Fallguy]

But that doesn't really explain why the applications ask Why you have it....

To me just the simple truth would be the best, So I can legally carry a handgun.

[Guest grimel]

Does it belong...No

Is it legal...yes

Yet you can't ask age, marital status, or religion. Things that might have an impact on your ability to do all the aspects of a given job.