As part of your church’s screening program for those who work with minors (or special needs individuals), one of those components will be a background check. You should be aware of what “offenses” might disqualify an individual from serving in this capacity.
A. AUTOMATIC DISQUALIFIERS
These offenses permanently disqualify an individual from serving with minors, regardless of how much time has passed or any mitigating circumstances.
1. Crimes Against Children
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Sexual abuse or exploitation of a minor
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Physical abuse or injury to a child
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Possession, distribution, or production of child pornography
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Endangering the welfare of a minor
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Custodial interference or kidnapping of a child
2. Sexual Offenses (against any age)
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Rape, attempted rape
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Sexual assault
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Indecent exposure
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Lewd or lascivious behavior
3. Felony Convictions (related to violence or abuse)
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Domestic violence
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Assault with a deadly weapon
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Homicide or attempted homicide
4. Inclusion on Any Sex Offender Registry
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Anyone listed on a state, national, or international sex offender registry is ineligible for any role involving minors.
B. DISCRETIONARY DISQUALIFIERS
These offenses or circumstances may disqualify a candidate, depending on:
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The nature and severity of the offense
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How long ago it occurred
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Evidence of rehabilitation
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Relevance to the role being sought
A review panel or leadership committee should evaluate these on a case-by-case basis.
1. Substance-Related Offenses
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DUI or DWI (especially within the last 5–7 years, or multiple offenses)
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Drug possession or trafficking
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Alcohol abuse charges
2. Nonviolent Felonies
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Theft or burglary
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Fraud or embezzlement (especially if role involves handling money)
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Identity theft
3. Misdemeanor Offenses
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Repeated misdemeanor convictions (pattern of disregard for law)
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Disorderly conduct or public intoxication (especially if recent)
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Harassment, threats, or stalking
4. Pending Charges
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Individuals with pending charges related to any of the above may be temporarily suspended from serving until the matter is resolved.
C. OTHER CONCERNING FACTORS
Even if not a legal disqualifier, the following can prompt further review:
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History of being dismissed from a previous youth-serving role due to misconduct
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Inappropriate use of social media, including posting sexually explicit, violent, or hateful content
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Pattern of dishonesty or deception during the application process
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Unwillingness to adhere to church policies, including background check consent, child protection training, or reporting obligations
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For your convenience, we have prepared an Evaluation Form encompassing the above guidelines which you are welcome to use. Should you have further questions, we would always welcome those. Thank you for your continued diligence in protecting those under your care.
