Is it permissible to run criminal history background checks on family members of a police officer applicant over TLETS?

Running criminal history background checks on family members of a police officer applicant is permissible under TLETS because such checks can provide relevant information about the applicant’s potential influence and any potential risks associated with their family ties. Officers are often expected to maintain a standard of conduct that can reflect on their family, and understanding the background of close family members can help in assessing the applicant's suitability for the role.

In many law enforcement contexts, the assessment of familial backgrounds serves to protect not only the integrity of the police force but also the community it serves. This information can shed light on any supporting issues that may arise from an officer's family connections. While the other choices set certain limitations or outright prohibitions, acknowledging the familial background in conjunction with an applicant's history helps to ensure a thorough evaluation in the hiring process.

Thus, it is essential for law enforcement agencies to perform comprehensive background checks, which can include the histories of family members, to mitigate potential risks and ensure public trust.