Straight up here; when I was 18 I was arrested for 'theft under' ($500) at my workplace in Ontario.
I went to court, was ordered to pay restitiution and see a probation officer for 1 year. I did all of that, and have since remained trouble free.
That was 25 years ago.

Now I have a wedding in Dallas in October, and fear that I won't be allowed into the States because of this record.
I've never applied for a pardon, and while I fully accept blame for this, it never really stood in my way, till now.
I can apply for a pardon, but it takes up to 10 months.

Am I in trouble? Do I risk the chance of not getting caught by US Customs officials? The last thing I need or want is an FBI criminal record.

Any help would be appreciated.

Well they definitely will see this on your record. Call the US border post you intend to cross at and ask them straight up if you will be allowed to enter the Us, apply for the pardon and bring proof you have requested a pardon, it wouldn't hurt.

It's up to them, there is no way they won't see it cause they always look at your id and ~should~ enter something into their computer system for everyone in your car.

* should meaning that if the border officer does his job he will see the conviction, but since it's a theft and not a violent crime they may not look at is as harshly.

Straight up here; when I was 18 I was arrested for 'theft under' ($500) at my workplace in Ontario.
I went to court, was ordered to pay restitiution and see a probation officer for 1 year. I did all of that, and have since remained trouble free.
That was 25 years ago.

Any help would be appreciated.


Your looking to visit as a tourist, not for residency. If you already paid for the criminal act as said then call the US customs department and ask them if it's even necessary to obtain a pardon. There may be limitations to the time for the record.


Bobby

It's up to them, there is no way they wont see it cause they always look at your id and ~should~ enter something into their computer system for everyone in your car.


I'll be flying into the States, not driving. I don't know if this makes any difference or not.

I've flown into the US without problems- but that was in 2001, prior to the 9/11 attacks.

Good idea... I need to find out about a statute of limitations, if any.

Honestly I think you'll be OK but it's up to them, all countries reserve the right to refuse entry to anyone with a criminal record but it's based on how dangerous the person would be if allowed in. A theft isn't usually something people get refused for.