Posted on Aug 26, 2019
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I scored well enough to qualify as a 35L, currently working on getting my record expunged. I had gotten arrested and went to court and was found not guilty. Still a problem for the clearance??
Posted in these groups: 090710 a 3251c 006 Reclass
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1SG Retired
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Even if you have it expunged, you are required to report it. See SF 86, Section 22.
Considering you were found not guilty, it shouldn't be a problem.
I suggest you look at SF 86 and note all the information you need, especially on relatives, employment, etc. Keep a copy FOREVER.
In fact, keep a copy of every contract, order, certificate, medical record, evaluation, etc., after you join the military. Don't rely on any system. Hard copy is great. Electronic media works fine, too, just ensure it is backed up.
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CPT Lawrence Cable
CPT Lawrence Cable
>1 y
We've given that advice more than once, I hope they take it to heart. When I went into the IRR, some of my National Guard stuff didn't transfer, a not uncommon problem. It was a bit of a pain to have to run down the stuff they hadn't sent me copies of the first time around. I still have copies of everything back to my entry ASVAB.
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CW3 Counterintelligence Technician
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Once your record is expunged you should have no problems. If it gets brought up, just explain it.
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SPC Ted Ronayne
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I'm not a lima, their retirements are much more stringent than my MOS (35F) However, I can provide you some of my knowledge about security clearances as I've got my TS.

You're going to be asked about the arrest, no doubt about it. However, it isn't necessarily a deal breaker, it depends on what the arrest was for? Was it related to domestic violence? Drinking? Drugs? Anything that could be held against you as having a deep seated problem that could lead to blackmail or otherwise have the intelligence community see you as a liability?

How long ago was the arrest? If it was recent, within the last year or two, you probably won't be able to get your clearance. Clearances usually require 3+ years since such incidents. They can look past it, so long as you can prove you're an upstanding person who's history doesn't represent them accurately.

As far as 35L goes, you're going to be interviewed by an agent. Even if you're squeaky clean from birth, such an interview can make or break your chances. Since you're going to have that matter come up, your best bet is to be forthcoming with any information they ask for... And most importantly...

Tell the truth! The clearance process can overlook small flukes, what it will never overlook is lying or trying to hide something. For a TS/SCI a representative (not a CI agent) will interview you and go over your Sf86. That representative will also call your references and dig up as much as they can on you. If you lie or hide something, not only can it extend the process by months, possibly years, but it can also sink your chances of ever getting a clearance.

I wish you the best of luck, but be warned you may be fighting an uphill battle. I'm not asking you to disclose anything, but simply do some self evaluation. Also, think of the best references you can. If you have a good relationship with your chain of command... I'd look to them to help you out.
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Sgt Field Radio Operator
Sgt (Join to see)
>1 y
SPC Ted Ronayne Excellent advice!
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SPC Ted Ronayne
SPC Ted Ronayne
>1 y
Sgt (Join to see) thank you very much SGT!
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SPC Ted Ronayne
SPC Ted Ronayne
>1 y
I meant requirements instead of retirements btw, failure to pay attention to detail on my part. Oops haha
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