Trying To Become a CNA With Criminal History?

Published Feb 8, 2014

37 Posts

I suppose that I have some questions that maybe someone can help with? See, almost two years ago, I made the biggest mistake of my life. I resorted to drinking and involving myself with the wrong people and wrong situations to try to deal with problems in my life. Well, one night, I consumed alcohol at a friends' house (no longer a "friend"), and drove. I obtained a DUI. I also had an accident. The hit and run charge from the accident was supposed to be dropped from my record because my plea bargain was that if I took the DUI, everything else would be dropped, I wouldn't have to come back to court for another trial, face jail time, pay more court costs, fines, etc. Therefore, I took the plea. I've bettered myself since this occurrence. I've taken a DUI class, I was on probation for a year and never violated, paid all of my fees in a timely manner, did community service, was required to go to counseling and AA meetings every week for three months, I'm also halfway through a 6 month period where I have to have an ignition interlock device in my vehicle, have completely changed my ways of life and the people I surround myself with, etc. I'm trying to become a CNA. I've recently had a background check done to complete my application for the CNA exam. And my supposedly "dropped" charge of hit and run still showed up. What I'm wondering is: Can I become a CNA with this background? Or is it of no use to try? The Board of Nursing in my state (FL) has requested information from the Clerk of Court in the county that I was arrested in and other documents. I'm ready to get my life on track and realize that this "mistake" should not be taken lightly. I regret this occurrence every single day. I could've hurt someone, hurt myself, etc. I'm terrified that this one-time mistake has hindered my chances of ever making something of myself, of ever becoming the person I wish to become and being able to help people. If someone could offer some advice, it would greatly be appreciated. Thank you.