Summary
A 46-year-old Project Manager with two Master's degrees was denied a security clearance following a DOHA review. The denial was based on concerns under Guideline E (Personal Conduct) and Guideline H (Drug Involvement), despite the judge finding in favor of the applicant regarding Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption).
The government alleged the applicant engaged in conduct demonstrating a lack of candor, dishonesty, or unwillingness to comply with rules, and used controlled substances in a manner inconsistent with their intended purpose. Disqualifying conditions cited included those related to alcohol consumption and drug involvement. While mitigating conditions were applied, they were insufficient to overcome the concerns.
The denial was specifically attributed to the applicant's history of illegal drug use, including cocaine and ecstasy, while previously holding a security clearance. Additionally, two alcohol-related arrests were cited as evidence of poor judgment and unreliability. Ultimately, the applicant's conduct was deemed not to demonstrate the honesty, integrity, or good judgment required for access to classified information, leading to the denial of the security clearance.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant had a history of illegal drug use, including cocaine and ecstasy, while holding a security clearance.
- The applicant's two alcohol-related arrests demonstrated poor judgment and unreliability.
- The applicant's conduct did not show honesty, integrity, or good judgment necessary for access to classified information.
Conditions Referenced
- AG ¶ 25(a)raisedSubstance Misuse
- AG ¶ 25(c)raisedIllegal Possession of a Controlled Substance
- AG ¶ 25(f)raisedIllegal Drug Use While Granted Access to Classified Information
- AG ¶ 16(d)appliedCredible Adverse Information
- AG ¶ 16(1)appliedUntrustworthy or Unreliable Behavior
- AG ¶ 16(2)appliedPattern of Dishonesty or Rule Violations
- AG ¶ 23(a)rejectedTime Passed Since BehaviorNine years have passed since the applicant's most recent DUI, but this does not mitigate the drug involvement.
- AG ¶ 23(b)rejectedAcknowledgment of Alcohol UseThe applicant acknowledged her alcohol use but did not demonstrate a clear pattern of abstinence from drug use.
- AG ¶ 23(d)rejectedCompletion of Treatment ProgramThe applicant did not provide evidence of successful completion of a treatment program for drug use.
Key Rule Quoted
“Any doubt concerning personnel being considered for national security eligibility will be resolved in favor of the national security.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedOct 19, 2018
- Answer filedDec 10, 2018
- Hearing heldMay 8, 2019
- Decision dateAug 29, 2019
Cite For
- Denial of Security Clearance Due to Drug Involvement Under Guideline H
- Impact of Personal Conduct on Security Clearance Eligibility Under Guideline E
- Consideration of Past Alcohol-related Incidents in Security Clearance Decisions Under Guideline G