In certain cases, a first time offence will result in a Diversion conviction. Many people believe that by getting a diversion, there will be no implications down the road. The issue is that if the person was fingerprinted and photographed and this information may remain in the system and get in the way when a criminal check is done.
Here is a recent email we received from a person who got a Diversion for a shoplifting charge:
“I was caught with somebody that stole from a department store a few years back,and was charged with theft under $5000.00.I applied for a diversion,and ended up paying some money,and doing some community service,and ended up with no criminal record,but y problem is that when i did my criminal record check,it states that i have been changed for shop lifting.I was wondering how i could get that removed? its been over two years since it happened.”
In this case a file destruction is required to remove the prints, photos, court and police records so that the person will be safe in the future to pass a criminal check from employers and border crossing.
If you have any questions regarding this topic or about Pardons and US Entry Waivers email us at [email protected] or call 1-877-929-6011.