Summary
A 27-year-old defense contractor intern was denied a security clearance under Guideline H (Drug Involvement) due to admitted controlled substance use. The applicant acknowledged using hallucinogenic mushrooms in March 2020 while holding a security clearance, which was deemed a violation of security procedures. Additionally, the applicant admitted to using marijuana from July 2015 to May 2017, though stated no further use or interest in using it again.
The administrative judge found that the applicant's conduct raised significant security concerns regarding reliability and trustworthiness. Disqualifying conditions were cited, including the use of controlled substances causing impairment or used inconsistently with their purpose, the use of hallucinogenic mushrooms while holding a sensitive position, and the use of marijuana.
The denial was based on the applicant's admission to hallucinogenic mushroom use while cleared, the lack of maturity and good judgment demonstrated by rationalizations for drug use, and the failure to establish a pattern of abstinence or provide evidence of rehabilitation from substance misuse. The security clearance application was ultimately denied.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant admitted to using hallucinogenic mushrooms while holding a security clearance, which violated security procedures.
- The applicant's rationalizations for his drug use demonstrated a lack of maturity and good judgment.
- The applicant failed to establish a pattern of abstinence or provide evidence of rehabilitation from substance misuse.
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
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 issuedJun 5, 2023
- Answer filedJun 20, 2023
- Hearing held—Applicant requested a decision on the written record without a hearing.
- Decision dateDec 13, 2023
Cite For
- Denial of Security Clearance Due to Drug Involvement Under Guideline H
- Importance of Maturity and Adherence to Laws in Security Clearance Decisions
- Failure to Mitigate Security Concerns Related to Substance Misuse