Summary
A 35-year-old male applicant with prior military service was denied a security clearance due to concerns under multiple guidelines, specifically Personal Conduct, Financial Considerations, Alcohol Consumption, Drug Involvement, and Criminal Conduct. The denial stemmed from a history of repeated drunk-driving offenses, cocaine use while holding a security clearance, and significant financial delinquencies.
The applicant had three DUIs between 2013 and 2015, and his cocaine use while cleared raised serious judgment concerns. Additionally, he accumulated significant financial delinquencies, including charged-off debts and collection accounts.
While the applicant completed treatment programs and claimed abstinence from alcohol since December 2019, the judge determined that his history of substance abuse and financial irresponsibility indicated a lack of judgment and reliability. Consequently, granting a security clearance was deemed inconsistent with national security interests.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant had multiple drunk-driving offenses, including three DUIs from 2013 to 2015.
- He used cocaine while holding a security clearance, which raised significant concerns about his judgment.
- The applicant had significant financial delinquencies, including charged-off debts and collection accounts.
Conditions Referenced
- AG ¶ 22(a)raisedAlcohol-related Incidents
- AG ¶ 22(c)raisedHabitual or Binge Consumption of Alcohol
- AG ¶ 22(d)raisedDiagnosis of Alcohol Use Disorder
- AG ¶ 31(a)raisedPattern of Minor Offenses
- AG ¶ 31(b)raisedEvidence of Criminal Conduct
- AG ¶ 31(d)raisedViolation of Probation
- AG ¶ 25(a)raisedAny Substance Misuse
- AG ¶ 25(c)raisedIllegal Drug Possession
- AG ¶ 15raisedPersonal Conduct
- AG ¶ 19(a)raisedInability to Satisfy Debts
- AG ¶ 19(c)raisedHistory of Not Meeting Financial Delinquencies
- AG ¶ 23(b)rejectedAcknowledgment of Alcohol Use ProblemThe applicant's history of relapse and failure to maintain sobriety undermined this condition.
- AG ¶ 23(d)rejectedSuccessful Completion of Treatment ProgramWhile the applicant completed treatment, his subsequent relapse and lack of ongoing support diminished the effectiveness of this condition.
- AG ¶ 20(a)rejectedBehavior Happened Long AgoThe applicant's financial issues and substance abuse were ongoing and recent.
- AG ¶ 20(b)rejectedConditions Beyond ControlThe applicant did not demonstrate responsible actions to address his financial issues.
Key Rule Quoted
“The protection of the national security is the paramount consideration.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedMay 21, 2021
- Answer filedMay 26, 2021
- Hearing heldJul 19, 2022via video teleconference
- Decision dateSep 16, 2022
Cite For
- Denial of Security Clearance Due to Multiple Duis Under Guideline G
- Substance Abuse Concerns Under Guideline H
- Financial Irresponsibility Under Guideline F