Posting #23 – David's Story

By: David
Date: 1/13/2009

I am a convicted felon and a registered sex offender in the state of Virginia. I am writing to you in regards to those of us like myself who can not get employment due to our criminal backgrounds. I have been home from prison since November of 2003 and I was fortunate enough to get my old job back but, due to the economy I was unfortunately laid off as of July of 2008 and since that time it has been very difficult for me to find employment.

I have applied to several companies and jobs where I knew I have the experience they are looking for but due to my criminal record they will not hire me. My crime was in April of 2001 and it has been almost 8 years now and it seems like I am still being punished for a crime I have already paid for.

I have done everything I could think of to get help and I have written several letters to the state governor as well as the state legislators here in Virginia and have yet to get any response. I am still on probation until 2013 and I am required by the probation office only to have a polygraph test done every six months in which I have to pay $200 for out of my own pocket. I have passed every one of them and I have no problem taking the test but, I can’t afford the cost to take the polygraph anymore. I fell like this test is unconstitutional and that my rights have been violated but, what can I do?

I can’t afford a lawyer to fight it so, I am stuck with all this mess to deal with on top of being unemployed. I do get unemployment benefits but it’s not enough for me to live on or pay all my bills.

I am so depressed over this that I have had thoughts of ending my own life. My families support and my faith in God have kept me going on. I don’t know what else I can possibly do that I have not already tried.

If there is anything you can do to help me and others like me then please let me know and I thank you for your time and may God Bless You for caring about people like me as well as others.

Thank you and I hope to hear from you soon.

David