I've read all the blogs on this topic after being determined ineligible for global entry and feel it is my duty to give hope and guidance for anyone that was in a similar situation as myself.

Last June I applied for the GOES program not having done any research as to what they would ask, the extent of their criminal background research as so forth. During my initial interview I was asked to provide all the basic documentation which wasn't an issue for me. Soon after they asked if there was any criminal convictions that I would like to mentioned. This lead me into my 1st and probably biggest mistake. I had a few moments as a teenager as well up until I was 20 here I got convicted for trespassing, open container while NOT driving a car and retail theft. Yes all three before I was 21, pretty terrible. I honestly only recalled the trespassing incident, this was for skateboarding in a parking garage back in the day when this was a criminal activity . I didn't disclose this information and was told that they couldn't process my GOES due to my history. They referred me to the CBP Ombudsman team, letting me know that I stood a strong chance if I explained myself and appealed it. I was pretty distraught due to being reminded of all three situations I got myself into, having been denied for a program that I needed for work and the fact I am a good person/citizen and have been since I was 20. I am not 41.

My immediate step was to contact the court house where these documents resided in. Because I didn't live in the same state as I had when I was a kid, my parents ended up having to go to the court and pick this information up. If I recall these documents needed to be picked up in person. After retaining everything I wrote a lengthy email, attaching a picture of my family and I, my job history in resume format and the court documents. In my email I gave a true meaningful explanation on each incident and explaining my regret. I went into detail about who I'm become today as a citizen, non-profit programs that I have been part of and an overall idea of my lifestyle. I also let them know why I wanted to be in this program, that I had been needing this for work and would also like to be able to cross the neighboring boarder easily with my family for surf trips.

About a week following my email to the CBP Ombudsman team, I was told I could also schedule a meeting with a supervisor at the GOES facility where I was determined ineligible. I took this opportunity very serious, wearing a suit and coming very prepared with all documentation. The supervisor was very nice and I was very polite back having been grateful for his time and the fact that this program was very important to me. I was given the chance to explain my 3 incidents, that I was remorseful and that it was no reflection as to what I've become as an adult. I mentioned that I had already submitted my appeal to the CBP Ombudsman team. He said that there was nothing he could do but that I shouldn't lose hope and just follow the necessary steps. I later was told that his recommendation was favorable, I guess the CBP Ombudsman team looked at my supervise meeting notes and this was probably the main reason I eventually would be accepted into the program.

I ended up waiting over 8 months before getting an email mentioning "
There has been a recent change to the status of your application.". After logging in I saw that my GOES status was back to Pending Approval and I needed to schedule another appointment (number 3). I called the facility but they were not able to give me any leading information, just that I had to come in to discuss.

During my last appointment I was told that I was accepted, there was nothing else for me to do and congratulations. I was lead to believe that the notes from my Supervisor visit had kind words to say about me as if they recommended I get approved.

This process took me 9 months. I followed all the steps and showed my respect, remorse for the stupid incidents I put myself in and sent a very lengthy appeal email, attaching resume, photo and a lot of detail about my life.

Final thought, don't get too discouraged with the appeal process. It is very long but the system does work and having this clearance is our privilege.
good luck to all