Departments typically conduct background checks and drug tests before hiring new staff for various reasons. The primary reason for these checks is to ensure the safety and security of the department and the community it serves. As a detective, you are entrusted with protecting the public while having access to sensitive information, so you must have a clean record and be drug-free. Moreover, background checks can uncover any past criminal activity or affiliations with criminal organizations, which could compromise the department's integrity. These checks are a necessary step in the hiring process to ensure the department hires reliable and competent detectives who will uphold the law and safeguard the community. Some departments may overlook a minor infraction or something that occurred when you were a juvenile. Regardless, you must be honest and disclose anything you think will come up during your background or drug test. Now is the time to explain your side of the issue while being honest and forthcoming.