Summary
Marissa L. Lachman, a 34-year-old applicant, was denied a security clearance based on concerns under Guideline E (Personal Conduct) and Guideline H (Drug Involvement). The Statement of Reasons detailed her admitted marijuana use from 2016 to July 2023, including while in a sensitive position between 2019 and July 2023. Additionally, she was alleged to have falsified responses in her 2019 and 2023 security questionnaires, specifically regarding her drug use.
Disqualifying conditions were raised under Guideline H, paragraphs 25(a) and 25(f), related to her drug involvement. While mitigating conditions under Guideline E, paragraphs 26(a) and 26(b), were applied to some personal conduct concerns, they were not sufficient to overcome the issues related to drug involvement.
The denial was primarily due to her marijuana use while in a sensitive position, which raised significant doubts about her reliability and trustworthiness. Her last use of marijuana occurred shortly before submitting her 2023 questionnaire, suggesting a lack of careful consideration in her responses. Ultimately, insufficient evidence was presented to establish a pattern of abstinence or adequately mitigate the concerns stemming from her drug use.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- Applicant used marijuana while holding a sensitive position, which raised significant concerns about her reliability and trustworthiness.
- The applicant's last use of marijuana occurred shortly before submitting her 2023 Questionnaire, indicating a lack of careful consideration of her responses.
- Insufficient evidence was provided to demonstrate a pattern of abstinence or to mitigate the concerns raised by her drug use.
Conditions Referenced
- AG ¶ 25(a)raisedSubstance Misuse
- AG ¶ 25(f)raisedIllegal Drug Use While Holding a Security Clearance
- AG ¶ 26(b)rejectedAcknowledgment of Drug Involvement and Actions Taken to Overcome the ProblemApplicant did not provide sufficient evidence of actions taken to change her past pattern of using marijuana.
- AG ¶ 26(a)rejectedBehavior Occurred Long Ago or InfrequentlyApplicant's illegal drug use was recent and occurred while holding a sensitive position.
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 26, 2024
- Answer filed—Undated document submitted by applicant.
- Hearing heldOct 24, 2024Hearing conducted via Microsoft Teams.
- Decision dateFeb 11, 2025
Cite For
- Insufficient Mitigation of Drug Involvement Under Guideline H
- Consideration of Personal Conduct in Relation to Drug Use
- Impact of Recent Illegal Drug Use on Security Clearance Eligibility