Summary
A 26-year-old defense contractor employee was denied a security clearance under Guideline H (Drug Involvement) due to a history of extensive drug use. The Statement of Reasons detailed multiple instances of drug involvement over a five-year period, from 2000 to 2005.
Specifically, the applicant used marijuana from July 2000 to March 2005, cocaine from February 2001 to June 2005, and ecstasy from June 2000 to August 2005. Other substances included gamma hydroxybutyrate (GHB) from July 2001 to February 2005, and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) once between June and November 2001. Additionally, the applicant illegally used prescription drugs such as Xanax, Lortab, and Valium with varying frequency from May 2001 to June 2005.
The denial was based on the applicant's admitted extensive and repeated drug use, which raised significant security concerns. Although the applicant claimed abstinence for over a year, the judge found insufficient evidence of continued abstinence after August 2006 and no demonstration of rehabilitation or completion of a drug treatment program.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant admitted to extensive and repeated drug use over a five-year period, which raised significant security concerns.
- The applicant failed to provide evidence of continued abstinence from drug use after August 2006.
- The applicant did not demonstrate rehabilitation or completion of a drug treatment program.
Conditions Referenced
- DC 1raisedIllegal Drug Use
- DC 2raisedIllegal Drug Possession
- MC 1rejectedRecent Drug InvolvementThe applicant's last admitted drug use was only four months before applying for a security clearance.
- MC 2rejectedIsolated or Aberrational EventThe applicant's repeated drug use over several years does not support this condition.
- MC 3rejectedDemonstrated Intent Not to Abuse Drugs in the FutureThere was no evidence of continued abstinence or changes in the applicant's environment.
- MC 4rejectedCompletion of a Drug ProgramThe applicant did not seek or obtain treatment for drug abuse.
Key Rule Quoted
“Eligibility for a security clearance is predicated upon the applicant meeting the criteria the adjudicative guidelines.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedJul 27, 2006
- Answer filedAug 21, 2006Undated response submitted.
- Hearing held—Determination on the record without a hearing.
- Decision dateJan 30, 2009
Cite For
- Denial of Security Clearance Due to Extensive Drug Involvement Under Guideline H
- Insufficient Evidence of Rehabilitation After Drug Abuse
- Criteria for Evaluating Drug Involvement in Security Clearance Cases