Current tattoo policies out dated?

[doubletapm4]

I know I'm probably going to get bashed for posting this... but I have recently thought about joining LASD/LAPD and the idea is quickly fading due to the tattoo policy...

I'm prior military, was raised in a military family, pretty much perfect record besides a speeding ticket in my teens. I think I have great morals still to this day. I work in the community right now and find I'm a very approachable person.
The idea that I would get passed up even if I was a better candidate because of my tattoos just really gets to me!!!! In this day and age I would think we would be moving pass this... I understand the "professional image" thing... but I think its becoming some what out dated... more and more "professionals" are getting ink every day.

For instance my wife is an RN and works for a state hospital and is pretty much covered... neck, chest, fingers, arms etc..... and it would actually be illegal for them not to hire her because of her ink or make her cover any of them up. It would be discrimination.

Sorry for my rant I just feel like venting... I just disagree with the current policy and feel that LE could be missing out on some great people just because of tattoos... especially here in CA!

i guess ill just have to wait 20 years maybe someone from a younger generation will be in charge and understand lol

[Norcal Industries]

like my mom says, shoulda thought of that before going to the tattoo shop. i get discriminated against all the time cause im fat. i shouldnt have eaten so much if i really wanted to get a job that demands being in shape.

[echoThreeOneSix]

like my mom says, shoulda thought of that before going to the tattoo shop.

yeah, you'd be a public service role. you have to look the part. i have tattoos but i also know a thing or two about moderation.

a couple tattoos isn't a bad thing but all over your entire body presents a negative image or a least lack of good judgement. in a customer service role it's always about image. i wouldn't want a doctor with a bunch of tats all over there hands/neck/chest... just sayin'

[teg33]

Most regular folks can not distinguish gangs related tats and "art" tattoo. This is the reason why LASD/LAPD have tattoos policy

[doubletapm4]

i don't know.... I just see it sounding kinda like anti gunners.... if i have some gun company stickers and a NRA shirt on... there going to get there panties in a twist and think im a gun nut.... it isn't right and were not going to get past this until we can get out there and change peoples mind.... and forcing LE to cover up is only impeding that!

[Worknstiff]

Maybe the robocop tattoo with the letters FTP was a bit much

[TRICKSTER]

Every choice we make has some type of consequence attached to it. That is why it is important to think through doing something to yourself that is permanent and could damage your future job possibilities. It's not like this is something new.

[WyattandDoc]

I would still try to come on. I'm covered. Granted, I only had a few when I came on and was initially pissed when they made me cover them up. After thinking about it, I came to the conclusion the department was absolutely correct when enacting the policy. We (and the military) are uniformed professionals and should portray that everytime we suit up. Bottom line, tattoos are not professional. I don't care what it is, it should be covered up.

If it's your passion, come aboard. A background investigator will look past them as long as you can cover them up. Just my 2 cents.

[Pauliedad]

Not a tatoo guy so I apologize for the ignorance here. What about removal?

[CaptMike]

San francisco pd will hire you with all tatoos and piercings visible. So there you go, apply.

[jdben92883]

Since when did people with tats become a protected group?

I know I'm probably going to get bashed for posting this... but I have recently thought about joining LASD/LAPD and the idea is quickly fading due to the tattoo policy...

I'm prior military, was raised in a military family, pretty much perfect record besides a speeding ticket in my teens. I think I have great morals still to this day. I work in the community right now and find I'm a very approachable person.
The idea that I would get passed up even if I was a better candidate because of my tattoos just really gets to me!!!! In this day and age I would think we would be moving pass this... I understand the "professional image" thing... but I think its becoming some what out dated... more and more "professionals" are getting ink every day.

For instance my wife is an RN and works for a state hospital and is pretty much covered... neck, chest, fingers, arms etc..... and it would actually be illegal for them not to hire her because of her ink or make her cover any of them up. It would be discrimination. Sorry for my rant I just feel like venting... I just disagree with the current policy and feel that LE could be missing out on some great people just because of tattoos... especially here in CA!

i guess ill just have to wait 20 years maybe someone from a younger generation will be in charge and understand lol

[ncortez11]

They are right when it comes to the public not knowing the difference between a criminal tattoo versus a regular tattoo. The average citizen would frown upon tattoos in general. I get what you are saying, but some things will never change. It's like having a street vendor with a tattoo on the forehead stating like "F@#4 people" and you buying from that person. He/she might be a down to earth reformed criminal with a messed up tattoo that he/she regrets now.

[mixicus]

I'm missing something...are you saying you couldn't get hired because of the policy or you are choosing not to apply because of a policy that you disagree with?

Tattoos typically come under "grooming standards". Same policy sections that cover hair length, mustaches/beards, cosmetic products,... The tattoo policies that I am aware of usually state 'tattoos can't be visible in uniform'. They also have provisions that my hair can't touch my collar and no beard for uniform assignments.

I shave every day and show up with a fresh hair cut though I may prefer to get shaggy at times. Small price to pay for a very rewarding career. Many guys have tatts (you just don't see them). Wear a long sleeve a long sleeve shirt or skins and you can enjoy a fabulous career for the next 30 years.

[Zorba]

In the 21st century, we should be past this. We're not, but we should be.

[Dutch3]

As a guy over 50, I think visible tattoos do reduce the image of professionalism for those in public service. I have nothing against individuality on a personal level, but those serving 'in uniform' should present a uniform appearance and demeanor.

What would you think about an officer who had his hair dyed bright orange or purple? It certainly would not affect the performance of his duties, but it would certainly detract from a uniform, professional appearance.

Of course, this is just the opinion of a fairly conservative 51 year old guy. I understand that many people, especially younger people, have different views.