Hello to all. I reside in PA. I had a Summary offense expunged about 3 years ago. First and last arrest, was for retail theft. I have completed my Masters since and have not gotten into any trouble since. I applied for a correctional job in Delaware and submitted my security clearance form 2 days prior to interview. I said no to arrest or conviction on form. Thought I could legally say that. After interview, was called two days later to say I was being offered job and told pay rate. I was also called that day to say I had to go for background clearance session next week at the DOC with HR. Now I am scared that the previous arrest will come up and I'll be in trouble for saying no to arrest and conviction on clearance form. She told me to bring id, professional license, employment history, personal references and any juvenile or adult criminal record documentation. Should I go to court to get copy of expungement record? I just don't want to get into any trouble. :-(

Expunged doesn't mean every record of it is wiped... it only means it doesn't show up in the minor background checks... the deep ones for clearances WILL turn it up.

A lot bepends on what type of background check they are doing. A secret or Top secret security clearance... you can basically kiss the job goodby. But a low level basic background check would likely not turn it up.

Thanks. I know the clearance is to work in the prison caring for the inmates. Don't know about secert or top secret. Thanks for your response!

We have some other people including ex-law enforcement that will be able to provide better answers than I can for that type of work when they see the thread so please be patient.

In most correctional settings, yes, they will see expunged records. If it was not a felony, it would not have stopped you from working. But lying on application will.

In fact, if they ever find out, about it, even after years of service, expect to be fired.

The reason is. If an inmate finds out, ( and it is easy to do, really) then they will use that to blackmail you.
This is a common thing that happens.

In most correctional settings, yes, they will see expunged records. If it was not a felony, it would not have stopped you from working. But lying on application will.

In fact, if they ever find out, about it, even after years of service, expect to be fired.

The reason is. If an inmate finds out, ( and it is easy to do, really) then they will use that to blackmail you.
This is a common thing that happens.

Thank you. No it was not a felony. Like I said, I thought I could legally say no on form but I am going to get expunged record on Monday and take with me to clarify things up. Thanks.