Well, see, as often is the case here, what seems like a basic black and white question is really not at all as simple as it first sounds. A history of problems and then lying about them is a lot different from an isolated mistake.

In light of the new information, I would say you do need to keep a close eye on her and seriously consider if she's even eligible for an officer position. Anyone who's led a parent group knows how much time and energy can be sapped by someone who needs to be babysat. And if the reputation of your group is in jeopardy, then you absolutely need to keep the best interests of the group in mind over everything else. John Doe, you know your group, your school, this person and the situation much more than any of us could. I say trust your instincts.

As for how I'd react, I already know the answer because I've been in such a situation. In my case though, it was an isolated incident, a mistake that was regretted terribly and restitution was made. There was absolutely no danger to the group, our members, our students or the community. As a matter of fact, this person went on to do tremendous work for the group and continues to be a major asset to the community.

In reality how do any of us know how we would react unless it was our group? We can say one thing but when it comes time we may feel different. how would we really feel to see Mrs. Jones sitting across from us knowing she was arrested, it is just human nature to feel uneasy. Now put into play that she may have access to fundraisers, banking, and representing you group...now how would you feel?

Thanks for the replys, for the record I am the president and the one who wrote this post. I am a regular person on this forum so I had to log out to protect my group.

The fact is that this person has had many problems in the past, I try to think we all have our stuff. She has the heart of gold, and will do anything you ask but she has the tendency to lie. She actually told me a few weeks ago about the incident but then said that the police let her off, so when I read it in the paper that she was arrested I was a little taken back as this is not the first time that I have been caught in her stories.

I do like the mom, I just worry that if I have to babysit her constantly should she be running, I have had one school official tell me she should not be running. My biggest concern is that if she is elected that her lies will catch up to her and damage the group and our mission. The word of her arrest just hit the papers yesterday so I am waiting to see what the fallout is...

I know it isn't my business unless she tells me, however my business is to make sure the best interest of my group is occuring, and the fact that she did not take responsibility of this worries me what may happen. Would you want this person on a check account, signing contracts, making business deals. You can like someone personally but not think they can do office.

I also have mixed feelings about this situation. Sometimes when people commit one crime, it leads to other crimes. If the person is elected, I would certainly watch them carefully.

Since you say it was a minor crime, I'm assuming it's a misdemeanor. Also, arrest records are usually in the paper so it's safe to assume that the news is out there and the local gossip hounds have done all they can to make sure everyone has read it or has heard about it.

You say she lied when the president asked her about it. Well, perhaps she feels her own business is her own business.

I guess the first question I'd ask myself is: "What is to be gained by sharing this information?" If it's just to turn the tide of public opinion away from her then I think it's a dirty trick. If her opponents can't win on their own merits then they don't deserve the position any more than she does.

Then I'd ask the following:

Does this crime affect her ability to do the work? If no, then why not let her do it?

Has she already been tried, convicted and served her sentence or paid her fine, etc? If yes, then who else has the right to punish her further?

Why call her a liar? Do any of us offer full disclosure every time we run for a board position? If someone asked me a question, I didn't want them to know the answer and it had nothing to do with the current situation, I might lie or I might say, "Why do you ask?" or even go so far as to tell them, "Gosh, that's really none of your business".

Ultimately, I say leave it alone.

Let the voters decide (if its a misdemeanor or minor offense). And, they need not know any details, its irrelevant IMO.

But if its a felony offense certainly that should trump all else I would think.

If not in your bylaws, maybe you should consider to add it a provision for not alowing persons with felony convictions to hold positions or be nominees.