Good Day,

My name is John Carter, I am 23 years old, and i am considering a career in law enforcement. Just took up some classes this upcoming semester to get the ball rolling.  I have no prior criminal history other than speeding tickets. I did have a Medical Card...I know some department want 5-7 years of no use and in that time frame i plan on getting my degree...

Thank You

 Howdy and greetings from Hotlanta.  Thank you for posting an introduction.  

Just curious as to why you would label your profile as you chose and why you had a medical card. 

I am sure the department you are interested in would not make an exception to their drug use and criminal history guidelines but you could consider getting and staying clean for a few years.  Start working on your BS in law enforcement.  This should allow you time to grow and develop into a valuable recruit and be the drug-free applicant all departments are seeking.  If you can get this accomplished before your 5-7 year limit, maybe you could persue your masters.  Plenty of people get into law enforcement in their 30s.  I am not sure if this option is financially viable for you but, if you feel that policing is your calling and you truly want to persue it, these are the ways that I would suggest.  Best of luck to you and, as previous posters have encouraged, I would also suggest that you change your user name if possible.