LAPD - "failed to follow examiners intstructions" - 1 yr until retest - help

[elnino]

I recently took an LAPD polygraph as part of the hiring process.  I didn't have anything to hide, but employed basic countermeasures to avoid the possibility of being falsely accused of deception.

I plan to contest the results, but don't know where to start, or on what grounds to contest them.  I tried searching the forums, but can't find anything specific or more current than 2007.  Can anyone direct me to the relevant contact information, or advise on how to structure my grievance?  My experience is described in more detail below...

I will also note that prior to and at the conclusion of the exam, the examiner asked if I had any friends or family in law enforcement (which I don't).  The first time seemed routine, but when asked again, I got the distinct impression he was asking me in case there was any reason to push me through the process.

The examination was standard and predictable.  The control questions were easy to identify.  I monitored my breathing the best I could, and maintained 20 breaths per minute for the ~2 hrs I was hooked up to the machine.  On the control questions, I allowed myself to feel a little nervous, and slightly quickened my breathing for 5 seconds after the question was read.  Otherwise, I kept everything level.

I was read the questions 4 times: 1st, normally, 2nd and 3rd was the silent answer test, and the 4th the examiner had me repeat the final word of the question and then answer out loud.  Apparently he suspected the use of countermeasures (though he didn't tell me that), but I kept my responses consistent throughout all four rounds of questioning.

At the conclusion of the test, he left and came back.  He said there were too many artifacts (without explaining what artifacts were), and the test couldn't be read.  He said he suspected I might have just been nervous, but the test would be reviewed by a panel, and I would likely need to retest.

I just received a letter stating that I "failed to follow the examiner's instructions, which made it impossible for the examiner to conduct an accurate examination.  As a result have been removed from the examination process for 12 months."  This effectively removes me from the entire application process, since after 12 months my application will have expired.

[quickfix]

I plan to contest the results, but don't know where to start, or on what grounds to contest them.I tried searching the forums, but can't find anything specific or more current than 2007.Can anyone direct me to the relevant contact information, or advise on how to structure my grievance?My experience is described in more detail below...

Contest what?  The fact that you attempted countermeasures and got caught?  Let me direct you to the right place:  the unemployment office.

[Ex Member]

The fact that you attempted countermeasures and got caught? 

How do you know this? He stated that he was never accused of attempting countermeasures. The polygraph operator mentioned "artifacts" caused by not following instructions.

[Ex Member]

I plan to contest the results, but don't know where to start, or on what grounds to contest them.I tried searching the forums, but can't find anything specific or more current than 2007.Can anyone direct me to the relevant contact information, or advise on how to structure my grievance? 

El Nino, I can only offer an opinion from similar past experience with close associates. There are options to challenge those in power, but the long term results may be a moral victory only. The resulting collateral damage, could result in you not being considered again for any LE position. You have to choose your battles; if your goal is to continue seeking a LE position, it may be best to let it go and try elsewhere. However, if your goal is to spotlight the folly of using polygraphy in the hiring process, then it may be worth stirring the shit pot.