Police help people with criminal records find jobs

Published 11:44 am Friday, August 3, 2018

THOMASVILLE — A young woman who has been hindered for years by her criminal record was eager to start a job search after police helped restrict the record.

Georgia law allows certain crimes, such as some misdemeanors, to be restricted from one’s criminal record to help in a job search.

During the past three months, Thomasville Police Department (TPD) has received about 60 applications and helped about half have charges restricted for job-searching purposes, but not permanently removed from their records.

“Any kind of drug charge is a red flag for somebody hiring,” said Maj. Wade Glover, TPD public information officer.

Glover said about 90 percent of the items successfully restricted are misdemeanor marijuana possession convictions.

Police attended a job fair at Southern Regional Technical College this week to help job-seekers who have criminal records. Glover said 15 to 20 people filled out restriction applications.

“One young lady was extremely happy to get her record restricted,” the officer said, adding that the woman got several applications for jobs she hopes to secure with her new status.

“She said she had been struggling for several years, and her record kept her from getting jobs.” Glover said.

Senior reporter Patti Dozier can be reached at (229) 226-2400, ext. 1820