On all Service Academy applications there is a section for describing events where you broke the law, were fined, etc. Until this summer, I had done nothing to make me think twice about anwering "no" to this question. A few weeks ago, five of my friends and I were caught doing doing something where signs specifically forbade the activity we were engaging in. The sheriff deputy who talked to us gave us a single, but big, ticket for violating a county ordinance. So the ticket only went on one person's record (it did not happen to be mine) but we all split up the cost of the ticket. So, I am wondering if I should notify the academies of the incident. I know that it would be the honest thing to do, but I am wondering if it would create trouble and confusion since there is actually nothing on my legal record. Thanks!
Violation of Law Question??
- Thread starter rayquad
- Start date
usna1985
15-Year Member
- Joined
- Jun 9, 2006
- Messages
- 7,848
I'm not sure how the question is worded. Be honest. If you aren't sure, I would generally err on the side of disclosing. Most "minor" incidents that don't involve alcohol or drugs won't pose a major issue. USNA realizes that young people occasionally make mistakes.
The key is to keep your nose clean from now through . . . well, forever. And, whatever you do, don't compound this event with a drug or alcohol violation.
The key is to keep your nose clean from now through . . . well, forever. And, whatever you do, don't compound this event with a drug or alcohol violation.
Sorry, I just thought it might help me get a better mix of responses
usna1985
15-Year Member
- Joined
- Jun 9, 2006
- Messages
- 7,848
MOD NOTE:
The forum rules state you shouldn't post the same thread in multiple forums. There could be an exception if, for example, the question is likely to have quite different answers depending on the forum in which it is posed. For example, each SA treats the CFA somewhat differently (e.g., events emphasized, how scores are put into the application mix, etc.). Even so, posting the exact same question in several forums is annoying to members, many of whom do read and participate in multiple forums, so the practice should be avoided.
In my view, this was somewhat of a borderline question b/c it is possible that different SAs have different questionnaires re prior conduct and/or that they treat/view prior bad conduct in slightly different ways (for example, USNA uses as "Character Board" and I'm not sure the other SAs do this).
It's probably better to post a question such as the OP's in one forum, get reponse(s) and then, if appropriate, post in another forum stating: "This is the answer I got regarding this issue for USNA. Does USMA take the same approach?"
And now, let's either return to the topic originally posted or move on. Thanks!
The forum rules state you shouldn't post the same thread in multiple forums. There could be an exception if, for example, the question is likely to have quite different answers depending on the forum in which it is posed. For example, each SA treats the CFA somewhat differently (e.g., events emphasized, how scores are put into the application mix, etc.). Even so, posting the exact same question in several forums is annoying to members, many of whom do read and participate in multiple forums, so the practice should be avoided.
In my view, this was somewhat of a borderline question b/c it is possible that different SAs have different questionnaires re prior conduct and/or that they treat/view prior bad conduct in slightly different ways (for example, USNA uses as "Character Board" and I'm not sure the other SAs do this).
It's probably better to post a question such as the OP's in one forum, get reponse(s) and then, if appropriate, post in another forum stating: "This is the answer I got regarding this issue for USNA. Does USMA take the same approach?"
And now, let's either return to the topic originally posted or move on. Thanks!
Whistle Pig
Banned
- Joined
- Jun 9, 2006
- Messages
- 1,633
I believe the answer is rather simple if not fully apparent.
You've broken the law often, regularly. You've even been observed, perhaps even "caught," addressed, warned. Do you ever drive over the speed limit? Have you ever drank alcohol or sampled illegal substances? Have you ever observed or participated in tagging, graffitti, or other destruction of property? How about being with someone(s) shoplifting or stealing something, even on a dare? How about clicking into any child pornography? btw, did you ever similarly go against specific "sign" instructions other than the speed limit? You get the point. And it's all illegal, law-breaking activity, regardless of the "level" of the crime. You were no less guilty of those violations simply because you were not caught and convicted.
Yes, USNA needs to know at least 2 things: 1. The general nature of your character; and 2. Your criminal history, if any. I'd say, by the nature and concern of your post that both appear to be in outstanding order. Period. USNA has to draw a line in this exploration and it would seem you've walked right up to it, and thanks to a kind law enforcement officer, and more so a grace-filled, loving Commander in Creation, not crossed that line. And btw, the line is not whether or not you "did it."
Imho, this was just your loving, sovereign Creator lending you some grace and mercy, perhaps a bit more overtly. And the evidence that Creator remains with you? The fact you're asking this question. It illustrates you know right from wrong, in both instances. Good for you, on both points. Remember it and move on. And when opportunity allows, share some grace and mercy with others who don't "deserve" or merit such, and are in need of it. Just like that law enforcement officer and your buddy who took your punishment for you and the others, did. (For some the essence of this story will be so clear.) Your record is now pure and white, it seems.
I understand and applaud '85's sense of righteousness and candor. Conversely that POV extended to its complete, thorough conclusion might not be desirable or necessary on any front.
You've broken the law often, regularly. You've even been observed, perhaps even "caught," addressed, warned. Do you ever drive over the speed limit? Have you ever drank alcohol or sampled illegal substances? Have you ever observed or participated in tagging, graffitti, or other destruction of property? How about being with someone(s) shoplifting or stealing something, even on a dare? How about clicking into any child pornography? btw, did you ever similarly go against specific "sign" instructions other than the speed limit? You get the point. And it's all illegal, law-breaking activity, regardless of the "level" of the crime. You were no less guilty of those violations simply because you were not caught and convicted.
Yes, USNA needs to know at least 2 things: 1. The general nature of your character; and 2. Your criminal history, if any. I'd say, by the nature and concern of your post that both appear to be in outstanding order. Period. USNA has to draw a line in this exploration and it would seem you've walked right up to it, and thanks to a kind law enforcement officer, and more so a grace-filled, loving Commander in Creation, not crossed that line. And btw, the line is not whether or not you "did it."
Imho, this was just your loving, sovereign Creator lending you some grace and mercy, perhaps a bit more overtly. And the evidence that Creator remains with you? The fact you're asking this question. It illustrates you know right from wrong, in both instances. Good for you, on both points. Remember it and move on. And when opportunity allows, share some grace and mercy with others who don't "deserve" or merit such, and are in need of it. Just like that law enforcement officer and your buddy who took your punishment for you and the others, did. (For some the essence of this story will be so clear.) Your record is now pure and white, it seems.
I understand and applaud '85's sense of righteousness and candor. Conversely that POV extended to its complete, thorough conclusion might not be desirable or necessary on any front.
Last edited: