Legal Question in Administrative Law in Maryland

Defamation of Character

Ok here is a long one. 5 Years ago I applied to a police department as a cadet. About a week before my background investigation I broke up with my girlfriend who was cheating on me with my best friend and when others didn't trust her she started telling them I hit her and mentally abused her. I thought she would tell the department this, but to my suprise the investigator told me that no one said anything bad. Now I am applying to a police dept and they pulled that record and she DID say a good amount of untrue statements that were never investagted and this has cost me a job. I still have 2 prospects what can I do to clear this? I have contacted the department that did the initial, but I want to know my options incase they won't admit improper investiagtion techniques. My current investigator even commented about lack of investigation.


Asked on 9/26/03, 5:31 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Michael Worsham Michael C. Worsham, Esq.

Re: Defamation of Character

You have a case, but would have to be able to prove the falsity of the statements. Also you would have to prove that the false statements were the actual reason you did not get the jobs. You would also be challenged on the statute of limitations, which is generally 3 years, although can be extended if you did not discover the improper acts until a later point in time.

Read more
Answered on 10/03/03, 6:55 pm
G. Joseph Holthaus III Law Offices of G. Joseph Holthaus

Re: Defamation of Character

Okay here we go with a police officer who is deceiving his employment....sheezzz....

My best advice is to hire an attorney and consider all your options. Employment matters can be complex. Much needs to be learned to address you particular situation. You may benefit from "coming clean" and then again you may not. Depending on the level of your background investigation, you may have FOIA claims to access the information.

Contact an attorney should you require specific advice. Joe Holthaus (410) 799-9002

Read more
Answered on 10/10/03, 10:47 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Administrative Law questions and answers in Maryland