Donald Trump would have to pardon David Petraeus before nominating him for secretary of state
Retired Gen. David Petraeus is reportedly one of four or five finalists President-elect Donald Trump is considering for secretary of state. He is also on probation for mishandling classified information, including sharing it with his biographer-mistress. Under the terms of his probation, Petraeus "shall not leave the Western District of North Carolina without the permission of the Court or probation officer," though he can travel for work "as approved by U.S. probation office." He would also have to notify his probation officer "within 72 hours of any change in residence or employment," which would seem to be easy enough if he accepts the secretary of state position.
On the other hand, having to inform a probation officer of your movements would be a huge pain for a secretary of state, a job that involves a lot of work-related travel. Also, Petraeus agreed to warrantless searches of his home, office, person, and computers and other electronic devices, which would be really problematic. Still, Petraeus' probation only lasts until April 23, 2017, and Trump could presumably shorten that further with a quick presidential pardon.
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