Try the TSA, chances improve if you a minority. The bonus, good English is not the main option. The government is always in fear of a racial discrimination charge from a potential hire. Would also suggest the U.S. post office, but they will be reducing their employee's next year.
If never been convicted (wonder if you were under 18 at the time of your troubles?) you should get by most government background checks (discrimination thing again). PC rules, these days, it seems with civil service jobs. And you get to join a union, which gives the appearance on wanting to slow down or halt the normal flow of government these days.
Even police departments may hire, some ex-gangbanger's are now cop's in LA, don't know about San Diego (have a few friends up in LA).. If ex-military you have a pretty solid case for being hired...background check or not. Though good jobs a getting rare, but government just seems to be getting bigger and expanding their work force.
Just to state, I would be considered a American National and a ethnic minority (Pacific islander). Though never had worked for or in any government agency.