LAPD - Los Angeles Police Department Background Investigation Standards Questions and Answers

Question 1

During the LAPD background investigation, a candidate admits to occasional marijuana use several years ago, prior to it being legal for recreational use, but has not used any illegal substances in the last three years.
How is this information most likely to be evaluated?

Accepted Answer

The investigator will evaluate the recency, frequency, and circumstances of the use as part of the 'whole person' assessment.

Answer

It will be considered an automatic disqualification due to the past illegal activity.

Answer

The candidate will be required to take additional drug tests for a period of five years.

Answer

It will be disregarded entirely since the use was not recent.

Question 2

Which of the following is an automatic and permanent disqualifier for any applicant to the Los Angeles Police Department?

Accepted Answer

A felony conviction as an adult.

Answer

A poor credit score with several accounts in collections.

Answer

Being fired from a previous job for poor attendance.

Answer

Multiple speeding tickets within the last five years.

Question 3

An LAPD applicant was terminated from a job five years ago for a policy violation. On the Personal History Statement, the applicant intentionally lists the reason for leaving as 'laid off' to avoid a negative perception. During the field investigation, the truth is discovered. What is the most likely outcome?

Accepted Answer

The applicant will be disqualified for dishonesty and lack of integrity.

Answer

The investigator will overlook the issue since it happened long ago.

Answer

The applicant will be given a chance to explain the discrepancy in a follow-up interview.

Answer

The applicant's file will be noted, but the process will continue if the rest of the record is clean.

Question 4

A candidate for the LAPD has a significant amount of student loan and credit card debt, resulting in a low credit score. However, they have never missed a payment and have a clear budget plan they are following. How will a background investigator most likely view this situation?

Accepted Answer

Positively, as it demonstrates financial responsibility and maturity despite the debt.

Answer

As an automatic disqualification due to the high amount of debt.

Answer

Negatively, as any significant debt is considered a potential risk for corruption.

Answer

Neutrally, as personal finances are not a major component of the investigation.

Question 5

Which of the following best describes the LAPD's standard regarding a candidate's driving history?

Accepted Answer

A candidate's driving record is reviewed as an indicator of their judgment and respect for the law.

Answer

Only DUI convictions are considered for disqualification.

Answer

Any at-fault traffic collision within the last two years is an automatic disqualification.

Answer

Parking tickets and minor infractions are completely ignored.

Question 6

During the background investigation, which area of a candidate's life is subject to the most intense scrutiny to determine their honesty and integrity?

Accepted Answer

The completeness and truthfulness of their Personal History Statement (PHS).

Answer

Their academic performance in high school.

Answer

Their physical fitness records and gym attendance.

Answer

The number of jobs they have held in the past ten years.