In today’s hiring environment, many companies opt for quick and inexpensive background checks, often relying solely on National Criminal Database type search that they find online. While this may seem like a cost-effective approach, it can lead to catastrophic consequences. A missed criminal record can result in legal liabilities, irreparable harm to a company’s reputation,  someone getting hurt, or worse. Below are real-world examples of what happens when organizations fail to conduct thorough background screenings.

1. Cable Company Technician Commits Murder

In Texas, a cable company hired a technician without fully vetting his criminal history. The employee had a history of forgery and harassment, which went unnoticed due to an inadequate background check. Tragically, he later murdered an elderly customer, leading to a jury awarding the victim’s family over $7 billion in damages. This case underscores the critical importance of thorough screenings, especially for employees who enter private homes. (Source: HRMorning)

2. Trucking Company Held Liable for Negligent Hiring

An Illinois appellate court upheld a $54 million verdict against a trucking company that failed to properly vet a driver. The company hired him without a comprehensive background review, and he later caused a severe accident that resulted in permanent injuries. This case highlights the dangers of overlooking thorough background checks in industries where safety is paramount. (Source: Industry News)

3. Healthcare Provider’s Inadequate Screening Leads to Assault

A medical group hired a physician without thoroughly investigating past allegations of inappropriate conduct. This oversight led to the sexual assault of a patient, exposing the organization to lawsuits and public scrutiny. Healthcare employers must take extra precautions to ensure patient safety by conducting comprehensive background checks. (Source: Norcal Group)

4. Security Firm’s Background Check Failures

G4S, a global security firm, failed to properly screen employees, allowing unqualified individuals to work in sensitive positions. One such failure led to an employee committing a mass shooting. This incident serves as a cautionary tale for employers responsible for hiring individuals in high-risk security roles. (Source: Wikipedia)

6. Private School’s Incomplete Background Check

Saint Ann’s School in Brooklyn hired Winston Nguyen, an ex-convict and former “Jeopardy!” champion, without completing his background check. He was later accused of soliciting child pornography from students. This case highlights the necessity of strict hiring protocols, particularly in educational institutions that work with children. (Source: New York Post)

The High Cost of Cutting Corners

While relying on a single National Criminal Database search may save a few dollars upfront, the risks far outweigh the savings. A proper background check should include:

• AT LEAST County or State searches, and federal criminal searches – 7 year history is recommended!
• Of course, its not a bad idea to check employment history, but with so many companies utilizing automated systems to verify employment, professional references are often a better option.
• And ALWAYS a Nationwide sex offender registry search.

Don’t get me wrong – the National Criminal Database searches are a great supplemental search – but pairing with some of the searches listed above greatly reduces your changes of making a negligent hire, leading to often devastating consequences, including lawsuits, financial losses, and public backlash. Employers must prioritize due diligence in their hiring process to safeguard their organization, employees, and customers.

Don’t let a missed criminal record become your company’s next headline. Invest in comprehensive background screening today. ProVerify has packages starting at $24.99 that will get you headed in the right direction! Want a custom quote? Email me jkerrigan@applicationverification.com or call at 412-877-8937. www.applicationverification.com