We receive many calls and emails from people who are surprised that their criminal record is still showing up on a criminal background check even though the charges were dropped.
It is not uncommon that a person will be fingerprinted following an arrest of assault, or theft or uttering threats, and later the criminal charges are dropped, dismissed, withdrawn, stayed or discharged in court. When this happens, many people believe they no longer have a criminal record. This is partially true, since no conviction was rendered, but the fingerprints can still show up in a common criminal record check which can really get in the way of employment and traveling.
Here is an email we recently received which shows how a dropped criminal record can still get in the way:
“I was wrongfully charged last year by a previous employer for theft. I hired a lawyer and my charges were dropped. I recently paid for a vulnerable persons police check with Peel Police. On the form it states “local police information” check attached appendix. It states theft under $5000 and no other information, stating the charges are dropped. I do now want to miss this great job opportunity that I have landed. What can I do to have this removed?
And why is it there if my charges were dropped? I am just worried I will not get hired.”
A File Destruction is necessary to remove the prints, photos, court and police records so that a criminal background check will come through clean without any red flags. If there is a conviction, then the person requires a pardon or record suspension to remove the criminal record from public record.
If you have any questions regarding this topic or about Pardons, Record Suspensions and US Entry Waivers email us at info@pardons.org or call 1-877-929-6011 or 416-929-6011.
